Selfishness in sports: why taking up space isn't a luxury

Selfishness is a word that often rubs you the wrong way. Especially in sports, where we like to encourage and challenge each other, and grow stronger together. But especially in endurance sports—where you spend hours on your own journey—"selfishness" can be the key to balance.

Because if you're not careful, you'll become exhausted. Not just physically, but mentally as well. Taking time for yourself might feel selfish, but it's actually an act of care. It's not about running away from others, but about returning to yourself. Refueling your body. Clearing your mind. So that you can give again.

Yet, many athletes struggle with guilt. You're not there for your friends. You skip a family gathering. Or you deliberately choose a rest day while your team is going. It feels like you're too focused on yourself. But that very thing can make you feel better about yourself—and more trustworthy in the eyes of others.

In that sense, selfishness isn't the opposite of caring. It's its foundation. As Richard Whately once said: "A man is called selfish not for pursuing his own good, but for neglecting his neighbor." But what if you take good care of yourself, without forgetting others? Then selfishness isn't an escape, but a preparation.

Even generosity is ultimately a form of self-care. Those who give something—time, attention, energy—feel more valuable. Stronger. Closer to themselves. Not because you expect something in return, but because it aligns with who you want to be. True generosity, therefore, isn't a sacrifice, but a way to remain whole.

Or as an athlete once said: "I don't train to be better than anyone else. I train to give my best to the people around me."

So take good care of yourself. Not despite others—but precisely because of them.

Yet, it can be difficult to create that space. We're used to adapting—to a training group, to a family routine, to social expectations. But your body doesn't demand alignment with the outside world. It demands that you listen within. To what you need, today, in this moment.

Selfishness then becomes something else: it becomes self-care. No confinement, no shielding, but a conscious choice for balance. It's taking a break after a tough week. It's choosing a solo run instead of a group ride. It's taking an extra rest day—not because you're lazy, but because your body demands it.

Especially in sports, you see how important this is. Those who take themselves seriously train with feeling. Build up their fitness sustainably. Recognize the signs of fatigue and prevent injuries. And most importantly: keep moving with enjoyment.

It's no wonder you often think more clearly on a bike or in the mountains. You detach from the noise. You connect with what's truly happening. You realize where your boundaries are – and the value of listening attentively to them. Those who practice this realize how important it is to create space. Not just when you have to, but as a foundation. Not despite others – but precisely so you can be there for them.