Emmanuel Joseph
Strategic Selfishness challenges one of society’s deepest taboos: the idea that caring for yourself is selfish. In this bold and thoughtprovoking work, the concept of 'selfishness' is radically rebranded as an ethical, generous, and necessary practice. Drawing on moral philosophy, systems thinking, and real-world leadership lessons, the book dismantles the myths of martyrdom and burnout, showing how neglecting yourself undermines not only your own well-being but also the communities, organizations, and families you serve. Through 17 powerful chapters, readers are guided to see boundaries as acts of generosity, rest as resistance, and joy as discipline. The book argues that prioritizing your own energy, time, and humanity is not indulgence but stewardship - a strategy that elevates everyone around you. Leaders, caregivers, and changemakers will discover how strategic selfishness transforms relationships, reshapes systems, and leaves behind a legacy of resilience rather than depletion. This is not a call to abandon generosity, but to root it in sustainability. By practicing strategic selfishness, you reclaim agency, resist exploitation, and model a healthier way of living. The result is a radical philosophy that insists: the most generous thing you can do for others is to take care of yourself first. Strategic Selfishness is a manifesto for a new era of leadership and living one where self-prioritization is not scandalous, but sacred. It is a book for anyone ready to break free from burnout and embrace a life of clarity, courage, and enduring impact.
