How to be S.E.L.F.-ish

The word “selfish” carries a heavy stigma, triggering images and judgments of narcissistic disregard for others. But what if true empowerment comes from embracing a deeper, more conscious form of self-interest?

In this episode of Soul Empowerment, we adopt the lens of the S.E.L.F. (Spiritually Empowered Life Force) to offer a new perspective on what it means to be S.E.L.F.-ish. Instead of prioritizing yourself at the expense of others, being S.E.L.F.-ish means honoring your needs, setting healthy boundaries, and making choices that align with the truth of who you are while still holding space for connection and mutual respect.

So often, accusations of selfishness are nothing more than projections—reflections of others’ unmet needs or conditioned beliefs. But standing in your true power doesn’t mean you don’t care or have no compassion; it means you respect yourself as much as you respect others. In effect, it’s as if you bring alive the wisdom of Jesus: “Love your neighbor AS yourself.” By expanding self-awareness and embracing self-love, you can release guilt, people-pleasing, and the fear of judgment, thereby stepping into a more balanced and authentic way of living.

In this conversation, we explore:

Projection vs. Perspective

How to recognize when accusations of selfishness stem from someone else’s expectations rather than your actions.

Judgment & Conditioning

Understanding how societal norms shape your views on self-prioritization and how to break free from outdated beliefs.

The Power of No

Why saying no is an act of self-respect and how to navigate difficult conversations without guilt.

Balancing Self & Others

The difference between self-honoring choices and reckless disregard, and how prioritizing your well-being leads to healthier relationships.

Check out the recording—and please remember to leave a comment in the discussion section below.

What does being S.E.L.F.-ish mean to you? What if being “selfish” wasn’t a bad thing? In this episode, we redefine S.E.L.F.-ish as embracing your Spiritually Empowered Life Force, honoring your needs, setting healthy boundaries, and living in alignment with your truth—without guilt or fear of judgment. Break free from conditioning, navigate projections, and discover the balance between self-respect and genuine connection.

About the Team

Gayle Nowak: Visibility Coach who shifts world-changing healers, lightworkers and New Earth leaders from outdated patterns into new possibilities. She weaves multiple modalities to guide clients and audiences into their truest expression so they can honor and carry out their soul mission. www.GayleNowak.com

Scott Holmes: Reiki Master, Polarity Therapist, RYSE Practitioner, Theta Healer Practitioner, and Author who empowers clients to transform and grow through multiple modalities of light, deep touch, sound, intention and crystals. www.RScottHolmes.com

Sara Jane: Vocal Reiki Master Teacher & Practitioner. Having worked on herself and healed her own early years trauma and hurt, Sara now supports clients, from her own experiences, to heal their own trauma and live a more fulfilling and happy life. www.VocalReiki.com