As the calendar flips to 2025, I find myself standing on the precipice of a milestone year: my 50th. It’s a year my husband has lovingly given me "permission" to be selfish. At first glance, the word “selfish” might raise an eyebrow, conjuring thoughts of self-centeredness. But in this context, it’s not about taking from others; it’s about giving back to myself. And honestly, isn’t that a gift we all deserve?
Redefining Selfishness
For much of my life, I’ve worn many hats: mother, partner, caregiver, and professional. These roles have been fulfilling, but they’ve also meant that my own needs and desires often took a backseat. When you’re raising children, the world revolves around their milestones, their needs, their joy. While I wouldn’t trade those years for anything, they left little room for me to celebrate the person I am outside of those roles.
Being selfish doesn’t mean neglecting others. It means carving out time to prioritize yourself in a way that nurtures your soul. It means recognizing that your happiness matters too. As women, we’re often conditioned to view selflessness as a virtue—and it is, to a point. But endless giving without refilling your own cup isn’t sustainable. By choosing to embrace selfishness, I’m choosing to honor myself and this incredible milestone.
The Beauty of Milestone 50
Turning 50 feels like a culmination of experiences, lessons, and love. It’s a time to reflect on where I’ve been and to dream about where I want to go. This year, selfishness will look like:
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Prioritizing Self-Care: Regular spa days, long walks in nature, and quiet mornings with a book and coffee. These aren’t indulgences; they’re necessities.
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Exploring Passions: From trying a new hobby to dedicating more time to photography, 2025 is about rediscovering what makes me tick.
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Traveling for Me: Planning trips not just for the family but for myself—places I’ve always wanted to see, experiences I’ve dreamed of.
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Saying Yes to Joy: Attending events, spending time with friends, and creating memories that celebrate who I am now.
A Lesson for Everyone
If you’ve spent years putting others first, it’s time to consider what being a little "selfish" might look like for you. It’s not about neglecting responsibilities but about recognizing that you’re worth the time, effort, and love you so freely give to others. By showing up for yourself, you’re also modeling to your children, friends, and loved ones the importance of self-respect and self-care.
As I step into this year of "selfishness," I’m excited to see how it transforms not just me but those around me. After all, a happier, more fulfilled version of myself can only enrich the lives of the people I love.
Here’s to celebrating milestone 50 with a new perspective—one where being selfish is the ultimate form of self-love.
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