Did you ever feel like you’re tiptoeing around someone who always demands attention? Or you may have noticed a friend or colleague twisting situations to their advantage, leaving you questioning your reality. Maybe, you deal with a narcissist. But there is a thing about egoists is that they aren’t just the stars of drama-filled reality shows or fictional villains—they could be your boss, your friend, or even a family member.
Up to 5 percent of the U.S. population, which is 50% to 75% most commonly found in men and estimated to have a narcissistic personality disorder during some period of their lives.
So, how do you deal with a narcissist who seems to drain your energy and challenge your sanity at every turn?
Ready to restore your peace?
Tessa, a woman in her mid-20s, has sometimes felt on top of the world. “I would wake up every day and go to college believing I was going to be a famous singer and that my life was going to be fantastic,” she recalls. “I thought I could just keep perfecting myself and that someday I would end up as this amazing person surrounded by this amazing life.”
What is a Self-Centered Person?
A self-centered person is anyone with an increased sense of self-importance who is always searching for constant admiration and attention. They might be showing themselves confident or charming initially, perhaps they sometimes make other people feel unappreciated or drained. They find it difficult to empathize with the feelings of others.
It is important to understand that not every individual with narcissistic traits has NPD(Narcissistic Personality Disorder), some might only display particular behaviors in specific contexts.
Narcissism VS. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
| Narcissism | NPD |
| It is a personality trait where a person seeks attention and may act self-centered occasionally. | A mental health disorder involving a persistent pattern of grandiosity, lack of empathy, and need for admiration. |
| Example: A coworker brags a lot about his achievements during a meeting for attention but still thanks the team for their help. | Example: A boss claims all the credit for a project’s success, ignores the team’s hard work, and gets angry if gets feedback from any team member. |
In short, narcissism is a common personality trait seen in varying degrees, while NPD is a severe, diagnosable condition that requires professional intervention.
When it comes to dealing with a narcissist, less is more. The less you give, the less they will have to use to manipulate you. The more information you provide, the more likely you are to get into a back-and-forth with them. — Alana Carvalho, LMHC
Types of Egoism
Egoists are of different types including:
1. Grandiose Narcissism
The people with grandiose narcissism tend to have dominant, aggressive and attention-seeking behavior. Grandiose personalities are not sensitive at all and show off their best things in front of others to feel superior to them.
A study reveals that grandiose narcissists often make impulsive, overconfident decisions while dismissing expert advice to maintain their self-image.
2. Vulnerable Narcissism
Vulnerable narcissists are seen as more sensitive and introverted in nature. They have a need for validation and admiration but hides it through their shy or insecure behavior patterns. When somebody doesn’t give them special treatment, they feel anxious or offensive.
3. Malignant Narcissism
Malignant personalities have a combination of aggression and manipulative behaviors. This type of narcissism is harmful for others as they can be toxic and abusive to have control over others and dominate as well. They lie and cheat without feeling guilty.
4. Communal Narcissism
Communal narcissists seem to be altruistic but they have a personal motive behind, which is to gain recognition and be seen as a hero. This is not their care rather it is because of their craving for admiration. Simply, they just look good and kind but in actual they are not.
Signs of a Arrogant Person
Here are some common signs of an arrogant person:
- Sense of Entitlement: They use others for their personal gains and exploit others by disregarding boundaries often.
- Manipulative Behavior: They twist situations to get their way. They use tactics to manipulate people or situations just to reach their goals.
- Need for Admiration: Their ego feeds on praise and validation. They are always craving for excessive attention and affirmation from others to boost their ego.
- Lack of Empathy: They are only concerned about their emotions and feelings.
- Difficulty Accepting Criticism: They may not be flexible in accepting criticism instead they react with anger, hostility and become defensive by viewing criticism as a personal attack.
How to Handle a Narcissistic Personality: 10 Practical Tips
Here we have come up with some strategies for you that will help you in maintaining your overall health:
1. Educate yourself about NPD
Understanding selfish behavior gives you the power to detach emotionally and to deal with a narcissist. Knowledge is your armor.
2. Build your self-esteem
Egocentrics often prey on those with low confidence. Strengthen your self-worth through affirmations, hobbies, or therapy to make yourself less vulnerable.
3. Advocate for yourself
Speak up for your needs. Instead of letting them dominate conversations, calmly assert your boundaries.
4. Enforce boundaries like a pro
Be clear and consistent. If they invade your privacy or overstep, say something like, “I won’t tolerate this behavior.” Remember, boundaries are non-negotiable.
5. Stay calm under pressure
Narcissists thrive on drama. Don’t give them the satisfaction of an emotional reaction. Use breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques to keep you cool.
6. Build a support system
Have a strong social support group by leaning on your friends, family, and support groups. Their perspective can help you stay grounded.
7. Demand actions, not promises
Empty promises are a narcissist’s specialty. Push for immediate results. For example, if they promise to respect your time, insist they show it by being punctual.
8. Know when you need help
Taking help or opting for a therapy may help to better cope and heal from the toxicity of a relationship with a self-admirer. If its taking a toll on your mental well-being then you are suggested to seek professional help.
When to Leave a Self-Absorbed Individual Behind
It is not that easy to get away from a conceited individual. But ask yourself that is it worth to either live or leave them:
- Is this relationship adding value to my life?
- Do I feel emotionally safe?
- Am I losing myself?
If you come up with a ‘no’, then it’s the time to move on. Prioritize your mental health, even if it means cutting ties.
Conclusion
It can be a tough thing to deal with a narcissist, but it’s not impossible. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the underlying psychology of a self-centered person. Narcissists may engage in manipulative behaviors to control and dominate you. But you must not lose your own identity or self because of their toxicity. So, prioritize your own mental peace.
Related Pick: How to Adopt a Healthy Mindset along with Quality Habits?
Stay strong, grounded, and never forget that you deserve healthy, respectful relationships.
