SELF-SEEKING

Definition of SELF-SEEKING

SELF-SEEKING Adjective

Self-seeking is an adjective describing individuals who prioritize their own interests, desires, or advancement above those of others, often exhibiting a singular focus on personal gain or gratification. It denotes a propensity to pursue self-centered objectives without considering or valuing the needs, perspectives, or well-being of others.

Prioritizing Personal Interests: At its core, self-seeking individuals prioritize their own interests, desires, or goals over the needs or well-being of others. They may engage in behaviors or decision-making processes aimed at advancing their own agenda or fulfilling their own desires without regard for the impact on others or the broader community.

Driven by Self-Interest: Self-seeking behavior is characterized by a strong drive for personal gain, recognition, or gratification, often at the expense of others. Individuals exhibiting self-seeking tendencies may prioritize opportunities for personal advancement, material gain, or social status without considering the ethical or moral implications of their actions.

Lack of Consideration for Others: One of the defining characteristics of self-seeking individuals is a lack of consideration for the perspectives, needs, or well-being of others. They may exploit relationships, resources, or opportunities to further their own interests without showing empathy or concern for the impact on others.

Selfish Motivations: Self-seeking behavior can manifest as selfishness or opportunism, where individuals prioritize their own needs or desires over the welfare of others. They may manipulate or exploit situations to maximize personal benefit, disregarding the rights or interests of others in the process.

Impact on Relationships: In interpersonal relationships, self-seeking behavior can erode trust, undermine cooperation, and create resentment among peers, partners, or family members. Individuals perceived as self-seeking may struggle to form genuine connections or maintain healthy relationships due to their focus on personal gain or advancement.

Cultivating Empathy and Altruism: Addressing self-seeking tendencies requires cultivating empathy, altruism, and a willingness to consider the perspectives and needs of others. This may involve practicing generosity, cooperation, and ethical decision-making to foster a more inclusive and compassionate approach to interactions and relationships.

Being self-seeking involves prioritizing one’s own interests, desires, or advancement above those of others, often at the expense of empathy, cooperation, or ethical considerations. While some degree of self-interest is natural and necessary for personal well-being, excessive self-seeking behavior can hinder genuine connections, undermine trust, and contribute to social discord. Cultivating empathy, altruism, and ethical awareness can help individuals strike a balance between personal fulfillment and consideration for others in their interactions and pursuits.

SELF-SEEKING, SELF SEEKING or SELFSEEKING?

The correct term is self-seeking, with a hyphen. This is the standard way to write this compound adjective, describing someone who is motivated primarily by personal gain or advantage. The hyphen helps clarify that “self” and “seeking” are acting together as a single modifier before a noun, ensuring clarity in communication.