One of the main personality traits narcissists are known for is that they have extremely high confidence and self-importance.

However, there are also a range of other traits that are often overlooked when dealing with narcissism. Traits such as an excessive need for admiration, lack of empathy for others, arrogance, jealousy, callousness and the tendency to exploit others for their own gain are all part of how a narcissist ticks.

These traits mean that only certain people can handle a narcissist in their everyday personal life – in a way the narcissist ‘targets’ these certain people subconsciously to suit their personality and their needs.

So what are these kinds of people and how do you stop yourself from becoming involved with a narcissist?

1. Intelligent and successful people

Narcissists believe they are the cream of the crop and with that comes the belief of high intelligence and a need to succeed.

Naturally, they would surround themselves with others who possess the traits they feel they do, so they choose to spend time with incredibly intelligent individuals who are well-trained, skilled and successful within their profession.

2. Extreme perfectionists

Narcissists choose to spend time with people who strive for perfection in everything they do, whilst constantly doubting themselves.

This type of behaviour allows the narcissist to feed into their idea of perfection and greatness, but the fact that the person is always doubting themselves will make the narcissist feel better in themselves, knowing they are better.

3. Self-confidence issues

Finally, narcissists choose to surround themselves with people who have underlying self-esteem issues because they can feel in control of the relationship as they are seen as better. The narcissist feeds off people who require validation and acknowledgement as they are vulnerable and easy to manipulate.

Although all of these traits may make the narcissist seem very negative, none of these behaviours are intentional or carried out with malice (generally speaking).

If somebody you know fits the traits of a narcissist, it doesn’t mean they’re a horrible person or that they should be avoided at all costs. Just ensure you know what you are getting yourself into before becoming close to that person.

Educate yourself on the behaviours of a narcissist and even how to cope with certain situations the narcissist may be involved in and there can even be advantages to having a narcissist in your life.

Do you know anybody who fits the traits of a narcissist? Or do you possess the traits narcissists often seek in others? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!


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This Post Has 5 Comments

  1. Oshadi Devi

    Sadly, and on a more negative note, narcissists seem also to gain great entertainment in their “crazy-making” abilities. Initially by hypocritical behavior, and secondly with a habitual tendency to actively lie in order to be perceived as a VIP (You really need me…)

    The “crazy-making” behavior happens, just when you think that you could love or trust them with friendship, they will bait and provoke you to uncharacteristically angry behavior, and find it entertaining to observe. Kind of twisted….

  2. Thea Dunlap

    LOL after reading this post, I re-evaluated myself and I got some of the traits that narcissists seeks. Now I need reign them down after this.

  3. lenzoka

    What if you are the narcissist? What if you read this and suddenly you realise you’re the narcissist? Should the person go to a psychiatrist ? Or is there no cure for it?

  4. Psaetahn

    I can’t seem to see why people who thrives to make other people crazy doesn’t make them a horrible person and shouldn’t be avoided at all costs. Can you please elaborate on this one?

  5. Jennifer

    If you have ever been involved with a TRUE narcissist (one who has the disorder and not just a few traits), you would most definitely not agree with the statement – in bold no less – that they don’t have to be avoided at all costs. Like hell they don’t. Only if you don’t care about living a decent life.

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