18 Ways To Spot A Narcissist

Narcissists are often charming and likable at first but can become difficult and draining over time. They display traits like constantly shifting conversations to focus on themselves, name-dropping, and an obsession with status and appearance. While narcissists may end up in leadership roles, their desire for power doesn't necessarily translate into effective leadership. They can also be hypersensitive to criticism, externalize blame, and leave a trail of broken relationships and failed ventures behind them. Narcissism exists on a spectrum, and while not all narcissists have a clinical disorder, even mild traits can disrupt personal and professional relationships.

Some narcissists are loud and boastful, while others may be shy and quietly fantasize about their greatness. Regardless of presentation, they crave admiration, can become defensive when overlooked, and often fail to recognize their narcissistic tendencies. Dealing with a narcissist can involve using flattery to avoid conflict, but in extreme cases, the best solution may be to limit contact. While narcissists are commonly thought to have low self-esteem, research shows they often have high self-confidence. Men are more likely than women to exhibit narcissistic traits, and younger generations, particularly millennials, show higher levels of narcissism compared to previous ones.