by Melissa Marie

Created on: May 29, 2008

When asking why we should never settle for second best in life, we are really asking, "is it okay to be selfish?" This question causes a lot of soul searching, but in the end, it really matters what YOU want, and not what others want for you or something that might do in place of your desires. So, you bet! It's okay to be selfish when driving for your goals. After all, this country was founded on this very principal: Life, Liberty, and the PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS. That is why it's okay to seek what you desire and nothing less. In this very principle lies the key to happiness.

I believe that we only have this life and no other to live. Now, I realize that this is a pretty powerful statement, but think about it. Many societies agree. No one has proven otherwise. Therefore it comes down to truly asking yourself, what do I want - without wasting another minute. After all, aren't we individuals? And aren't we worth it? I say so. At any rate, all we have is this moment, we never truly know what will happen in the next, and at all times we should be either happy or striving to be so. Plus, there is a matter of a legacy. Everyone knows when someone is miserable all of the time, just ask Ebeneezer Scrooge. Without gaining what we truly desire, the legacy that we are leaving behind will not be what we have intended.

The only thing anyone should ever settle for is exactly what they want, and even if you don't agree with my previous statements, there is much consideration to be given to WHY you should only settle for precisely what you desire. First and foremost is that if you settle for anything other than what your heart desires, you will leave a longing in your soul unquenched, still burning. So much so that depending on the importance that you have placed on this achievement determines to what extent that you may actually begin to abhor your choice for second best in the long run. Also, I believe that if I work hard, I should be able to play hard and attain what I desire. Now, I realize that this is not always the case. But I won't settle for anything less than what I had originally intended - even if this means that I have to work a bit harder, for a bit longer.

The next time that you are about to accomplish something ask yourself, "is this what I had intended?" Answer yourself honestly, and go with your gut. This way you will ensure that the life that you are living is up to your standards and you will gain nothing less than satisfaction from your achievements.

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