This quote is essentially highlighting the idea that when you act out of selfishness, it may bring temporary satisfaction, but in the long run, it tends to limit your growth and happiness. Selfishness, in this context, refers to prioritizing one’s own needs or desires to the detriment of others. It’s about being self-centered and not considering the feelings or well-being of others.

The feeling of being “constricted and restricted” can be interpreted as the emotional and psychological limitations that come with selfishness. When we are selfish, we put ourselves in a box, limiting our perspective to just our own needs and wants. This can lead to a lack of empathy, understanding, and connection with others, which are all essential components of human happiness.

In today’s world, this idea is more relevant than ever. We live in a society that often promotes individualism and competition over collective well-being. This can lead to a culture of selfishness, where people are more concerned with their own advancement rather than the good of the community. However, research has shown that people who are altruistic and empathetic tend to be happier and more fulfilled.

In terms of personal development, this quote suggests that to grow as individuals and to find true happiness, we need to move beyond our own self-interests and consider the needs and feelings of others. This could mean volunteering our time to help those less fortunate, being more understanding and patient with others, or simply making an effort to listen and empathize more. By doing so, we can break free from the constraints of selfishness and experience a deeper and more meaningful form of happiness.