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If you're worried about being a self-centered person, that concern shows you've already taken an important step towards change. Change can be tough, though, so if you need more guidance on this journey, we can help. We've put together a useful list of simple things you can try that can help you focus less on yourself and more on the needs of others. Even small changes in your daily life can make a big impact!
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Expert Q&A
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QuestionCan a self-centered person change?Arda Ozdemir is the Executive Coach and Founder of Rise 2 Realize, a nonprofit organization in Palo Alto, California that is dedicated to providing a practical roadmap toward one's full potential in their life and career. Arda is a Reiki Master, an Emotional Freedom Technique Practitioner, and a certified HeartMath Trainer and Mentor.Yes! If you're not sure where to start, try doing some random acts of kindness. You could volunteer to pick up a friend from the airport, grab your roommate a coffee for no reason, or pick your significant other flowers.
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References
- ↑ https://hbr.org/2016/07/what-great-listeners-actually-do
- ↑ https://hbr.org/2018/05/is-your-emotional-intelligence-authentic-or-self-serving
- ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_putting_yourself_in_someone_elses_shoes_may_backfire
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolution-the-self/201608/self-absorption-the-root-all-psychological-evil
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolution-the-self/201510/compromise-made-simple-7-handy-tips-couples
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolution-the-self/201510/compromise-made-simple-7-handy-tips-couples
- ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/positive-reinforcement-psychology/
- ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2689844/
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/perfectly-hidden-depression/202003/am-i-being-selfish-self-centered-or-simply-self-aware
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolution-the-self/201608/self-absorption-the-root-all-psychological-evil
- ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_gratitude_motivates_us_to_become_better_people
- ↑ https://www.piedmont.org/living-better/4-reasons-friends-and-family-are-good-for-your-health
- ↑ https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/volunteering-and-its-surprising-benefits.htm
- ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/the_benefits_of_a_family_pet
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolution-the-self/201608/self-absorption-the-root-all-psychological-evil
- ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/does_self_compassion_make_you_selfish
About This Article
Worried you might be too self-centered? With a little practice, you can become a more humble, empathetic person. When talking to others, focus on listening and understanding instead of thinking about what you want to say next. Try to put yourself in their shoes and see things from their perspective. Instead of talking about yourself, ask them questions about their interests and experiences. If you don’t agree with someone, look for ways to compromise instead of insisting that you’re right or always trying to get your way. Celebrate others’ successes instead of trying to one-up them. And don’t forget small gestures like saying “thanks” when someone does something for you! For more tips, including how to swallow your pride and ask for help when you need it, read on!
Reader Success Stories
- "Eye opening topic. Very helpful! Thank you. "
