For most of my life, I felt like it was my obligation to put others first. I felt this way because I had a strong desire to be a hero. Every time I went to the movies or every time I played a video game, the hero would go through a journey to save someone. However after all these years, I finally learned that the hero loved himself just as much.
He wouldn’t let himself get harmed by the villain. He would do anything he could to use self-defense if he had to. However, he didn’t harm other people for fun. He viewed himself equal to them.
He would also enjoy what the journey had to offer. He would cherish the life he was given and would make life experiences. Sometimes he had to travel the world to beat the villian and in those travels he would record what happened. When the villain was defeated, then hero traveled as he pleased.
Some people might view fictional characters and stories silly to compare to, but I think they could be a great teacher if one uses the lessons learned in them.
I also believe that what lessons and beliefs I have will be passed on to my children. This is because children are learning from their parents all the time. If I taught them to love others but hate themself, then I would be doing more harm than good. But if I told them to think win-win, then they and I will be much happier.