Selfishness Isn't the Problem, Lack of Long-Term Thinking Is
We Are Focusing on the Wrong Problem
A few weeks ago, our fridge broke down during a heatwave. We called a local repair guy who showed up on time, chatted with my mom about his family struggles, and got to work—or so we thought. He seemed kind, hardworking. My mom was ready to recommend him to family and neighbors. "He works hard for his kids," she said. But the fridge failed again the next day, and he stopped answering his phone.
The scam cost us some money, but it made me realize something bigger: this wasn’t just about selfishness. It was about short-sightedness. If he'd done a solid job, we would’ve referred him to a dozen people. He went for the quick cash—and torched his own reputation.
That’s what stuck with me. It’s not selfishness that wrecks trust. It’s tunnel vision.
When people chase quick wins without thinking ahead, they undercut themselves. But when you apply even a little foresight, self-interest becomes something entirely different—something sustainable.
We don’t need to shame people for being “selfish.” We need to talk more about short-term thinking.
Short-Term Thinking Is What Ruins It
Short-term thinking is about grabbing what's in reach now—never mind the cost later.
That repair guy saw a payday, not the referrals that could’ve followed. It’s the same in the office: a teammate withholds info to claim more credit. It works—until trust dries up and nobody wants to work with them. Same deal on the road: someone cuts in line during traffic. Saves two minutes. Wrecks the flow for everyone else. Including themselves.
Self-interest isn’t the issue. It’s the failure to zoom out.
Long-Term Thinking Turns Selfishness into Strategy
Shift the mindset, and selfishness can actually build something real.
If the fridge guy had delivered quality, we’d have kept him busy for months. Wanting more business wouldn’t have made him greedy. It would’ve made him smart.
You see this in freelancers who charge fairly but overdeliver. Maybe they lose money short-term. But clients rave. Business grows.
Or in someone skipping that impulse buy and investing the money instead. It’s not sacrifice—it’s future-proofing.
Even in relationships: asking for a fair share of chores isn’t selfish. It’s what makes things work in the long run.
Why We Default to Short-Term Moves
It’s easy to blame character. But most of us aren’t wired for long-term play.
Our brains crave safety now, especially when life feels uncertain. Maybe that repair guy needed the money badly. Maybe he figured this one win was the only win.
It’s a survival reflex. But survival mode makes us worse at seeing the future.
We see it in parenting too. A parent gives in to avoid tantrums. But the long-term fallout is worse—kids who never learn how to handle disappointment.
If we want to break this cycle, we have to start with awareness. Recognize the feeling. Don’t act on it right away.
Long-Term Thinking Feels Better, Too
Beyond the practical upside, long-term moves give you something short-term wins rarely do: peace of mind.
My mom felt hurt by the scam. But she doubled down on working with people she trusts. That choice always pays back.
And for the repair guy? Even if he doesn’t feel guilt, that kind of burnout lifestyle—ghosting calls, dodging follow-ups—takes a toll.
Compare that to someone who invests in others, even when it’s not easy. Mentoring a junior teammate now? Slows you down a little. Gives you support later—and satisfaction that actually lasts.
We See This Pattern Everywhere
Quick examples:
Students cram instead of learning consistently. They pass, but don’t retain.
Dieters go for extreme restrictions. They drop weight fast. Gain it back faster.
Friends flake on plans for short-term comfort. Over time, the connection fades.
The answer isn’t to judge the selfish instinct. It’s to extend the timeline.
Next time you're chasing a quick win, ask: Where does this leave me in a year?
That’s usually enough to change the move.
Self-interest isn’t wrong. Shortsightedness is.
Think further out. It pays.