What is narcissism?
When we talk about the pattern of narcissism, we refer to what textbooks tell us: narcissism is defined by selfishness, entitlement, and a low level of empathy. Narcissists want to be in control and feel superior, operating with a false self-image. These are some defining features of narcissism. But as we explore further, there are many other adjectives that describe these individuals, such as stubborn, closed-minded, argumentative, and impatient.
However, if I were to choose one descriptor of narcissism that best illustrates why it’s so difficult to deal with, it would be intolerance. Narcissists are extremely unwilling to accept individuals with beliefs, preferences, or interpretations of life that differ from theirs. When I say intolerance, I’m referring to their strong black-and-white thinking, where they believe, “You must agree with me.”
There are two types of people narcissists are most intolerant of, and I want you to consider where you fall within these categories. First, narcissists are intolerant toward people who represent diversity. I’m not just talking about diversity in ethnicity or gender but in opinions, values, lifestyle choices, and even small behaviors, like how someone manages their time or what they find humorous. For narcissists, diversity is intolerable because it challenges them.
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