Narcissism is generally seen in a negative light, and that makes a lot of sense. However, there are some upsides.
While many of a narcissist’s behaviours are damaging to anyone they come in contact with, they do actually have some positive traits that the rest of us could use a bit more of in our lives. Here are some positive aspects of narcissism that aren’t talked about very much.
1. They’re self-assured even in really challenging situations.
People with narcissistic tendencies often display unwavering confidence, even in high-pressure scenarios. This self-assurance can be contagious, weirdly enough, and potentially lead to better outcomes in stressful situations because other people might follow suit. Their ability to remain composed under pressure can be particularly valuable in leadership roles or during crises.
2. They’re often visionary thinkers.
The grandiose thinking associated with narcissism can lead to bold, creative ideas. Narcissists aren’t afraid to think big and challenge the status quo, which can lead to major progress. They encourage everyone around them to push boundaries, which could just lead to some majorly groundbreaking achievements.
3. They have a strong drive for success.
The desire for admiration and recognition often fuels an intense ambition in people with narcissistic traits. This relentless pursuit of success can lead to remarkable achievements and continuous self-improvement. Their determination to excel can be a powerful motivator, both for themselves and those around them.
4. They’re often charismatic leaders.
Source: Unsplash Many narcissistic individuals possess a natural charisma that draws people to them. This charm, combined with their self-assurance, can make them effective leaders who inspire and motivate people. Their ability to command attention and articulate their vision can be particularly valuable in roles that require rallying people towards a common goal.
5. They’re resilient in the face of criticism.
Because they have such a thick skin, they’re not bothered by criticism. It doesn’t destroy their sense of self, nor does it make them doubt themselves. Of course, this sometimes means that they don’t learn and grow, but it also means that they don’t ever get down on themselves based on anyone else’s opinion.
6. They’re great at self-promotion.
People with narcissistic traits are really good at highlighting their strengths and achievements. In a world where self-promotion is increasingly important, this ability to market themselves effectively gives them a huge advantage. Their approach to personal branding can open doors and create opportunities in various professional settings.
7. They can be incredibly persuasive.
Source: Unsplash The combination of charm, confidence, and a strong belief in their ideas makes many narcissistic people highly persuasive. This skill can be invaluable in negotiations, sales, or any situation that requires convincing people of something. Their ability to articulate their vision and get support behind them can be super effective when it comes to being successful.
8. They often have high emotional intelligence.
Source: Unsplash Contrary to popular belief, many people with narcissistic traits actually have a deep understanding of other people’s emotions — they just don’t always use it well. This emotional intelligence allows them to deal with social situations easily and build strategic relationships. Because they can read people’s emotions so well, they can influence them more easily, which can be a valuable asset in both personal and professional contexts.
9. They’re often quick decision-makers.
They don’t waffle and go back and forth before making a decision — their self-assurance lets them act quickly. In situations where swift decisions are crucial, their ability to make choices without excessive deliberation can be beneficial. This decisiveness can keep projects moving forward and prevent analysis paralysis in high-stakes situations.
10. They can be excellent crisis managers.
Source: Unsplash The calm confidence and decisiveness often displayed by narcissistic people can be particularly valuable when the chips are down and the stakes are high. Their ability to remain composed under pressure and take charge of chaotic situations can provide much-needed stability and direction in emergencies.
11. They’re often innovators.
Source: Unsplash The belief in their own uniqueness and abilities often drives narcissistic people to think outside the box. This tendency towards unconventional thinking can lead to innovative solutions and creative breakthroughs. Their willingness to challenge established norms can be a catalyst for progress.
12. They can be incredibly productive.
Source: Unsplash The drive for recognition and success often results in high levels of productivity among narcissistic individuals. Their ability to focus intensely on their goals and work tirelessly towards them can lead to impressive outputs. This productivity can be contagious, inspiring team members to elevate their own performance.
13. They often have a strong sense of personal style.
Source: Unsplash The self-focus of narcissistic people often extends to their appearance and personal brand. This attention to self-presentation can result in a distinctive and memorable personal style. In industries where image matters, this keen sense of personal branding can be a significant asset.
14. They can be effective at networking.
Source: Unsplash The social skills and charm often associated with narcissism can make these people highly effective networkers. Their ability to leave strong first impressions and cultivate strategic relationships can open doors and create valuable opportunities. In a world where ‘who you know’ often matters as much as ‘what you know’, this networking prowess can be incredibly advantageous.
