The 7 Most Common Narcissistic Personality Traits to Look Out For
If you’ve ever dealt with a narcissist, you know how frustrating and exhausting it can be. They can be manipulative, self-centered, and lack empathy for others. Unfortunately, spotting a narcissist can be challenging, and many people may not even realize they’re dealing with one until it’s too late.
In this article, we’ll explore the seven most common narcissistic personality traits to look out for, so you can recognize them in yourself or others and take action to manage them.
1. Grandiose Sense of Self-Importance
One of the most defining traits of a narcissist is a grandiose sense of self-importance. They often exaggerate their achievements, talents, and abilities and believe they’re superior to others. They may also crave attention and admiration and feel entitled to special treatment.
If someone you know always talks about themselves, boasts excessively, or expects special treatment, they may be displaying this trait.
2. Lack of Empathy
Narcissists struggle to understand and relate to the feelings and needs of others. They may disregard others’ emotions and use them for their benefit without feeling any remorse. They also struggle to form meaningful relationships as they fail to see beyond their own needs.
If someone you know dismisses others’ problems or feelings, seems insensitive to others’ pain, or seems remorseless after hurting others, they may be displaying this trait.
3. Need for Constant Attention and Admiration
Narcissists crave constant attention and admiration from others to maintain their grandiose sense of self-importance. They may engage in behaviors that draw attention, such as boasting or dressing provocatively. However, they are incapable of feeling satisfied with the attention they receive, leading them to continuously seek more attention and admiration.
If someone you know is always seeking attention, interrupting others in conversations or dominating activities, they may be displaying this trait.
4. Self-Centeredness
Narcissists tend to think only about themselves and rarely consider the feelings or needs of others. They may disregard others’ boundaries and try to control or manipulate them to serve their own interests. They may also view others as objects to be used rather than individuals with their own thoughts and feelings.
If someone you know always talks about themselves, interrupts others when they speak, or manipulates others to get what they want, they may be displaying this trait.
5. Exaggerating Achievements and Talents
A narcissist may exaggerate their achievements or talents to gain admiration and seem superior to others. They may also lie or manipulate to make themselves look more accomplished than they are.
If someone you know brags about their achievements or talents, but their words don’t match their reality, they may be displaying this trait.
6. Envy and Jealousy
Narcissists often envy others and feel threatened by their success or accomplishments. They may attempt to undermine others or sabotage their success to feel better about themselves. They may also struggle to celebrate others’ achievements and may feel resentful or angry.
If someone you know is constantly comparing themselves to others or belittling others’ achievements, they may be displaying this trait.
7. Arrogance
Narcissists often display arrogance, believing they’re superior to others and above the rules that govern others’ behavior. They may display this trait through their body language, tone of voice, or behavior towards others. They may also refuse to take responsibility for their mistakes or accept criticism.
If someone you know acts superior to others, dismisses others’ ideas or suggestions, or refuses to take responsibility for their mistakes, they may be displaying this trait.
Conclusion
In conclusion, recognizing and managing narcissistic personality traits can be challenging. However, by understanding these common traits, you can spot them in others and yourself and take action to manage them effectively. Remember, having a few narcissistic traits doesn’t necessarily mean you have a personality disorder, but if these traits are causing problems in your relationships or your life, it may be worthwhile seeking professional help.
