Narcissism is a word that gets thrown around a lot these days, often with a mix of judgment and curiosity. Maybe you’ve taken a self-assessment (like our ) and noticed some traits in yourself that gave you pause. Or perhaps you’re just looking to grow as a person and build better relationships. Either way, the good news is that narcissistic tendencies aren’t set in stone. With intention and effort, you can shift toward a more balanced, empathetic, and fulfilling way of living.
In this article, we’ll explore what narcissism really means, why it develops, and most importantly how to address it. Whether you’re dealing with subtle self-centered habits or more pronounced traits, these practical steps can guide you toward meaningful change.
Understanding Narcissism: What Are We Working With?
Before diving into solutions, let’s clarify what narcissism is. At its core, narcissism involves an excessive focus on oneself think inflated self-importance, a hunger for admiration, or a lack of empathy for others. It’s not just about snapping selfies or loving the spotlight; it’s a pattern of thinking and behaving that can strain relationships and stunt personal growth.
Narcissistic traits exist on a spectrum. Some people might occasionally crave attention or struggle with criticism, while others exhibit deeper patterns, like manipulating others or feeling entitled to special treatment. The key thing to know? Recognizing these tendencies is the first step to changing them. Nobody’s perfect, and admitting there’s room to grow is a sign of strength, not weakness.
So, how do you “get rid of” narcissism? It’s less about erasing parts of yourself and more about building healthier habits, fostering empathy, and creating balance. Let’s break it down into actionable steps.
Step 1: Cultivate Self-Awareness
Change starts with knowing yourself really knowing yourself, not just the polished version you present to the world. Narcissistic tendencies often stem from insecurity or an overinflated self-image, so getting honest about your thoughts and behaviors is crucial.
How to Do It:
- Take a Self-Assessment: Tools like our can highlight areas like self-perception, empathy levels, or need for admiration. Use the results as a roadmap, not a verdict.
- Journal Regularly: Write about your interactions each day. Ask yourself: Did I dominate a conversation? Was I quick to take offense? Did I consider others’ feelings? Patterns will emerge.
- Seek Feedback: Ask trusted friends or family for honest input about how you come across. It might sting, but their perspective can reveal blind spots.
Why It Works:
Self-awareness helps you spot narcissistic habits like interrupting others or fishing for compliments before they take over. It’s like holding up a mirror to your behavior, giving you the chance to adjust.
Step 2: Practice Empathy (Yes, You Can Learn It!)
Empathy, the ability to understand and share others’ feelings is often a weak spot for people with narcissistic traits. The good news? Empathy isn’t just a trait you’re born with; it’s a skill you can build.
How to Do It:
- Listen Actively: In conversations, focus on what the other person is saying instead of planning your response. Nod, ask questions, and paraphrase to show you’re engaged (e.g., “It sounds like you’re really stressed about work want to tell me more?”).
- Put Yourself in Their Shoes: When someone shares a struggle, imagine how you’d feel in their situation. This mental exercise bridges the gap between “me” and “we.”
- Volunteer or Help Others: Acts of kindness, like helping a neighbor or volunteering at a local charity, shift your focus outward and connect you to others’ realities.
Why It Works:
Empathy softens self-centeredness by reminding you that other people’s experiences matter just as much as your own. Over time, it rewires your brain to value connection over competition.
Step 3: Tame the Need for Admiration
Craving constant praise or feeling crushed by criticism can trap you in a cycle of seeking external validation. To break free, you need to build a stronger sense of self-worth from within.
How to Do It:
- Celebrate Small Wins Privately: Instead of sharing every achievement for likes or compliments, savor it yourself. Did you nail a project? Treat yourself to a quiet moment of pride.
- Reframe Criticism: When feedback stings, pause before reacting. Ask: What can I learn here? Even harsh words might hold a kernel of truth worth exploring.
- Set Internal Goals: Focus on personal growth over external rewards. For example, aim to listen more than you speak in a meeting rather than trying to impress everyone.
Why It Works:
By relying less on others’ approval, you develop a stable self-esteem that doesn’t swing with every compliment or critique. It’s liberating to know your worth doesn’t depend on a spotlight.
Step 4: Rethink Relationships
Narcissistic behaviors like dominating conversations, manipulating situations, or expecting others to prioritize your needs can strain relationships. To change, you’ll need to approach interactions with humility and respect.
How to Do It:
- Share the Stage: In group settings, make space for others to shine. Ask questions, celebrate their successes, and resist the urge to steer the focus back to you.
- Own Your Mistakes: If you’ve hurt someone, apologize sincerely without excuses. A simple “I was wrong, and I’m sorry” goes a long way.
- Set Mutual Goals: In close relationships, work toward shared objectives like planning a trip together rather than insisting on your own way.
Why It Works:
Healthy relationships thrive on give-and-take. By valuing others as equals, you build trust and connection, which feel far more rewarding than one-sided admiration.
Step 5: Challenge Entitlement
Feeling like you deserve special treatment or that rules don’t apply to you can alienate others and block growth. Replacing entitlement with gratitude flips the script in a powerful way.
How to Do It:
- Practice Gratitude Daily: Each evening, write down three things you’re thankful for, especially small acts of kindness from others. It shifts your focus from “I deserve” to “I appreciate.”
- Follow the Rules: Whether it’s waiting your turn or respecting workplace policies, embrace fairness. It’s a reminder that you’re part of a community, not above it.
- Acknowledge Others’ Efforts: Thank people genuinely a coworker for their help, a friend for listening. It counters the belief that you’re owed their support.
Why It Works:
Gratitude grounds you in reality, fostering humility and connection. It’s hard to feel superior when you’re genuinely thankful for the people around you.
Step 6: Seek Professional Support (If Needed)
Sometimes, narcissistic traits run deep, tied to past experiences or insecurities that are tough to unravel alone. There’s no shame in asking for help it’s a bold step toward change.
How to Do It:
- Find a Therapist: Look for a licensed psychologist or counselor experienced in personality traits or self-esteem issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Schema Therapy can be especially effective.
- Join a Support Group: Groups focused on personal growth or emotional intelligence offer a safe space to learn from others’ experiences.
- Be Open to Feedback: Therapy works best when you’re honest and willing to explore uncomfortable truths about yourself.
Why It Works:
A professional can guide you through underlying issues like childhood wounds or fear of vulnerability that fuel narcissistic behaviors. It’s like having a coach for your emotional growth.
Why Change Matters (And Why It’s Worth It)
Let’s be real: addressing narcissistic traits isn’t easy. It takes time, courage, and a willingness to face parts of yourself you might not love. But the payoff is huge. By letting go of self-centered habits, you’ll find:
- Deeper Relationships: Friends, family, and partners will feel valued and heard, leading to stronger, more authentic bonds.
- Inner Peace: You’ll rely less on external validation, freeing you from the rollercoaster of praise and criticism.
- Personal Growth: Embracing humility and empathy opens the door to becoming the best version of yourself.
Narcissism isn’t a life sentence it’s a set of habits you can reshape with effort. Every step you take toward self-awareness, empathy, and connection is a step toward a richer, more meaningful life.
Take the Next Step
Ready to start your journey? Here are a few ways to keep moving forward:
- Revisit Your Assessment: Download your results from our to track your progress over time.
- Practice One Habit Daily: Pick one step from this article like active listening or gratitude and commit to it for a week.
- Learn More: Dive deeper into personal growth with books like The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown or Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman.
Change doesn’t happen overnight, but every small action counts. You’ve already taken the first step by reading this, now keep going. You’ve got this.
Originally published at narcissistprofile.com. Want to share your thoughts or experiences? Leave a comment below!