Is It Good to Be Selfish and Clever? Smart Ways to Survive Among

Is It Good to Be Selfish and Clever by Deceiving Others? How to Survive Among Such People

In today’s competitive and fast-moving world, many people believe that being selfish and clever—even if it means deceiving others—is the quickest way to success. At first glance, this approach might look smart because selfish people often grab opportunities without hesitation. However, the bigger question remains: Is it truly good to harm someone else for personal gain? And more importantly, how can we survive among such people without losing our peace of mind or values?

Why People Choose Selfishness and Deception

To understand this behaviour, we must first recognise the root causes:

Fear of scarcity: Many believe opportunities are limited, so they rush to secure them—even unfairly.
Short-term success: Deceiving someone may provide immediate gains, which motivates them to repeat the act.
Social pressure: In workplaces and communities, people sometimes copy the selfish behaviour of others to avoid being left behind.

While these reasons may explain the mindset, selfishness and deception rarely bring long-term satisfaction. Respect, trust, and relationships built over years can vanish with just one dishonest act.

Why Selfish Success Doesn’t Last

Selfishness might give temporary wins, but it destroys the very foundation of success—trust. A clever but deceitful person often faces:

Loss of credibility in the community.
Strained relationships at work or home.
Anxiety, guilt, and fear of being exposed.

In contrast, people who practice honesty and fairness may struggle at times, but their reputation and integrity create stronger opportunities in the long run.

How to Survive Among Selfish and Deceitful People

Living or working around such individuals can be draining. Yet, with the right approach, you can protect yourself:

Set clear boundaries – Do not allow selfish people to exploit your time, energy, or resources.
Stay alert but calm – Be aware of manipulative behaviour, but avoid reacting in anger. Respond with clarity and logic.
Strengthen your values – Practising honesty, kindness, and consistency builds resilience against negativity.
Document and communicate – In professional life, keep written proof and communicate clearly to avoid being blamed or tricked.
Choose your circle wisely – Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage fairness and positivity.

The Middle Path: Smart but Not Selfish

It’s important to understand that being clever is not the problem. The problem starts when cleverness turns into selfishness at the cost of others. You can be smart, strategic, and aware—without being deceptive. This balance allows you to survive among selfish people while still maintaining your values.

Final Thoughts

So, is it good to be selfish and clever by deceiving others? The answer is no. It might look attractive for short-term benefits, but the long-term costs are too high. Instead, focus on being smart, fair, and value-driven. That way, you not only survive among selfish people but also build a life of respect, peace, and lasting success.