Narcissism is a term that has been used relatively frequently in recent times, but what does it really mean?
Narcissism refers to a personality characterized by excessive self-admiration, lack of empathy toward others, and a constant need for attention and recognition.
Although we all have some amount of narcissism, in some people this personality trait can be extremely pronounced and have a negative impact on their relationships and work life.
In this article, we will explore the effects of narcissism on work and professional success, and discuss how to manage it in the workplace.
What is narcissism?
The term “narcissism” comes from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection in a pond and eventually died from being unable to get away from it.
In psychology, narcissism refers to a personality characterized by excessive self-admiration, lack of empathy toward others, and a constant need for attention and recognition.
These personality traits can be extremely attractive at first, but they often lead to toxic relationships and conflicts in the workplace.
The effects of narcissism on job performance
A study by JK Hoover and PL Hough (2017) titled “Narcissism and job performance: a systematic review» found that narcissism can have a negative impact on job performance.
Narcissistic workers can be less effective in teams and are less likely to receive positive feedback from their coworkersAdditionally, they may have difficulty accepting criticism and feedback, which can be an obstacle to professional growth and development.
Put yourself in the hands of an expert
If you feel that your narcissism is having a negative impact on your work life, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist or coach can help you work on your personality traits and develop more effective skills.
The effects of narcissism on interpersonal relationships at work
In addition to the impact on job performance, narcissism can also negatively affect interpersonal relationships in the workplace.
Narcissistic workers may be perceived as arrogant and self-centered by their coworkers, which can lead to conflict and lack of team cohesion.
A study by PR Robins, RC Fraley, and RF Krueger (2016) titled «Narcissism and leadership effectiveness: A review and meta-analysis» found that although narcissistic leaders may be perceived as more attractive at first, In the long term they are less effective and are less likely to be followed by their employees.
Narcissism and leadership
Narcissism can also affect a person's ability to lead effectively. As mentioned above, narcissistic leaders may be perceived as attractive at first, but they often struggle to maintain the respect and loyalty of their employees over the long term.
Additionally, they may have difficulty listening and considering the perspective of others, which can limit their ability to make informed and effective decisions.
How does narcissism affect mental health?
Narcissism can also have a negative impact on mental health. A study by MK Campbell and PJ Goodie (2015) titled “Narcissism and mental health: a critical review» found that people with high levels of narcissism are more likely to suffer from mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
In addition, narcissism may increase the risk of substance abuse and self-destructive behaviors.
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How to handle narcissism in the workplace
If you are trying to handle narcissism from a coworker or leader, there are some things you can do to help the situation.
- Talk to the person: If you feel comfortable doing so, you can try talking to the person in question and letting them know how their actions are negatively affecting the team dynamic. It's important to be respectful and avoid judgment and accusation, and instead focus on how their actions are affecting the situation.
- Set clear boundaries: If the narcissist is difficult to deal with, it is important to set clear boundaries with them. This includes saying “no” when necessary and not allowing their behavior to affect you negatively.
- Seek support: If you feel overwhelmed by the narcissism of a coworker or leader, it's important to seek support. You can talk to a trusted friend or family member, or seek professional help like a therapist.
- Practice assertivenessAssertiveness is the ability to express your needs and feelings clearly and directly, without being aggressive toward others. Practicing assertiveness can help you handle the narcissism of a coworker or leader more effectively.
- Focus on yourself: Instead of focusing on changing the other person, try to focus on yourself and how you can handle the situation in a way that is healthy for you. This includes setting clear boundaries and seeking support when needed.
If, on the other hand, you consider that you are the narcissist at work, there may also be a series of decisions that you can make in this regard:
- Seek professional help:As we said above, a psychologist can help you work on your personality traits and develop healthier communication and relationship skills.
- Practice empathy: Try to put yourself in other people's shoes and consider how they feel and what they need. This will help you become more aware of your actions and have a greater connection with others.
- Accept criticism and feedback: Try to see them as opportunities for growth rather than a threat to your ego. This will help you be more open to feedback and improve at work and in your relationships.
- Focus on the well-being of others: Instead of constantly focusing on your own success and admiration, try to focus on how you can help others and how you can contribute to the well-being of your team or company.
- Work on your self-awareness: Try to be aware of your own emotions and thoughts, and ask yourself how they are affecting your actions and your relationships with others. This will help you become more self-aware and conscious of your own needs and boundaries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, narcissism can have a negative impact on job performance, interpersonal relationships in the workplace, and mental health. If you feel that your narcissism is negatively affecting your work life, it is important to seek professional help to work on these personality traits. It is also important to be aware of how your behavior can affect others and try to be aware of this in the workplace. With work and awareness, it is possible to manage narcissism and improve the quality of your work life and interpersonal relationships.