
Craig Malkin
A science-based, compassionate guide to understanding and balancing narcissism in ourselves and others.
The Narcissus myth, which inspired the term 'narcissism,' is woven throughout the book as a metaphor for both the dangers and the allure of self-absorption.
Section 1
9 Sections
Imagine a tranquil morning by a reflective pond, the surface still and smooth, mirroring the sky above. Here, we begin our journey—a gentle exploration into the heart of what it means to feel special, to be seen, and to matter.
Think of the people you know—perhaps yourself—who quietly believe they are kinder, more talented, or more deserving than others. This is not arrogance; it is the 'better-than-average effect.' Studies across continents reveal that most people, when asked, will place themselves a little above the rest. This gentle self-enhancement is not only normal, but it also helps us weather storms, dream bigger, and recover from loss.
Yet, our culture often warns us against narcissism, painting it as a rising epidemic. The truth is more nuanced.
As we set out on this audio journey, let us hold close the idea that to be human is to long for significance. The drive to feel special is not a flaw to be eradicated, but a force to be understood, balanced, and gently guided. With each step, we will discover how this force shapes our relationships, our dreams, and the stories we tell ourselves. And as the sun rises over the pond, casting golden light on the daffodil at its edge, we will see that embracing our need to feel special is the beginning of both healing and hope.
Let us now move to the origins of this spectrum—how nature, nurture, and the world around us shape the way we see ourselves and others.
7 more insights available in app
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