Your mother's probably told you that being selfish is one of the worst traits to have. I disagree. Sorry mom.

Now, I do not mean this to be taken in the extremes. Always putting yourself before others, making yourself seem more important and neglecting the needs of others is most likely what your mother was talking about and it is definitely not acceptable. However, being selfish in the terms of putting yourself first and making yourself happy is acceptable and often times essential.

In terms of making yourself happy, the only person in the entire world that can control that are ourselves. At first, this statement was a little lost one me. I've always put more of myself in others and tried to make them happy that as a result, I fell short on my own happiness. If you're in the same shoes as I was, take a step back.

It is impossible to be happy 24/7, and the statement mentioned is not telling you to do that, it is simply telling you to honor your own needs and put yourself first. So, how can you do that? Well here are 5 ways that are perfectly okay to be selfish.

1. Sleep

Everybody needs sleep, don’t cut yourself short on it. Go to bed early, turn off your phone and don’t set an alarm.

2. You need a break

Life is hard. Everyone deserves a break every now and then, and you do too. Whether its taking the morning off, a weekend vacation or staying in for the night, pick something and take a break.

3. Celebrating your accomplishments

Go ahead and celebrate your promotions, good grades and even small accomplishments. Sure other people will care when you tell them, but nobody will care as much as you do. Pride yourself.

4. Asking for help

You're not alone, and it's okay to not be okay. It's nothing to be ashamed of, your loved ones want to help so don't be afraid to ask for it.

5. Standing up for yourself

If you are not being treated the way you should, then put your foot down and stand up for yourself. Be true to yourself and know that you don't deserve that type of behavior and choose happiness.

I'm sure your mother told you that being selfish wasn't a trait people should possess, but I think it's a trait you must possess for your own self happiness.