Selfishness

Selfishness really goes back to when we're babies and toddlers. When a baby is born, the baby thinks that he or she is the center of the universe. Toddlers begin to understand that there are others with needs, which is often a rude awakening (hence the "terrible twos"). As we grow through childhood, one of the important lessons that we learn is to share with others, to acknowledge that we aren't the only one who is important. Parents and teachers help with those lessons.

Unfortunately, lessons don't always stick. As we become adults, there often isn't someone to remind us to share (or to say "please" and "thank you"). We forget, particularly at work, and start to hoard information or resources. We don't give credit to others when it is due to them. Rhonda Owen-Smith says that "competitiveness and the desire for recognition create a selfish and insecure nature, especially in the work environment." Remember, no one can serve two masters, and that includes yourself. If you are only focused on what's best for you, you cannot be focused on God.