Whoever said “nice guys finish last” was wrong.
The cliché “nice guys finish last” has permeated popular culture for decades, suggesting male-identifying individuals who prioritize kindness, empathy, and consideration for others are destined to be overlooked or taken advantage of in the pursuit of success.
At its core, the idea that nice guys finish last implies being agreeable or altruistic is inherently detrimental to one’s prospects for success. It suggests assertiveness, competitiveness, and self-interest are the keys to achieving one’s goals, while kindness and empathy are liabilities to be avoided. This narrow interpretation overlooks the myriad of ways kindness and comion can be assets in both personal and professional endeavours.
There’s nothing inherently wrong with being agreeable or putting others before oneself. Research shows prosocial behaviour—acts of kindness, generosity, and cooperation—can have numerous benefits for both individuals and society as a whole.
Specifically, studies have found people who exhibit prosocial traits tend to experience greater levels of happiness, satisfaction, and fulfillment in their lives. They often enjoy stronger social connections, higher levels of trust, and increased opportunities for collaboration and mutual .
Contrary to the notion nice guys finish last, many successful individuals attribute their achievements, in part, to their ability to cultivate positive relationships while fostering a sense of goodwill towards others.
In business, for example, leaders who prioritize empathy and understanding are often able to inspire loyalty, better motivate their teams, and create a culture of innovation and collaboration. Likewise, in personal relationships, individuals who demonstrate kindness and generosity tend to cultivate deeper connections and more meaningful bonds with others.
There’s a difference between being kind and being a pushover. The idea that being nice equates to weakness or ivity fails to acknowledge the strength and resilience required in acts of kindness and comion. Far from being a sign of vulnerability, the ability to empathize with others, forgive, and extend grace in the face of adversity requires a tremendous amount of inner strength and courage.
It’s a testament to the power of the human spirit to transcend self-interest and embrace the commonalities binding us together.
While the phrase “nice guys finish last” may persist as a catchy aphorism, it fails to capture the richness and complexity of human relationships and the multitude of ways in which kindness and comion contribute to individual success and wellbeing.
Rather than viewing kindness as a liability, we would do well to recognize it as a strength—one with the power to transform our lives and the world around us for the better. After all, in a world that can often seem harsh and unforgiving, kindness may be the greatest asset of all.
Allie is a third-year political studies student and The Journal’s Senior Lifestyle Editor.
Tags
All final editorial decisions are made by the Editor(s) in Chief and/or the Managing Editor. Authors should not be ed, targeted, or harassed under any circumstances. If you have any grievances with this article, please direct your comments to [email protected].