What does it mean to be “self-absorbed”?
How it relates to narcissism.
For starters, Neo says, narcissists are very entitled, as are self-absorbed people.
7 common signs to look out for:
They call all the shots.
One of the more obvious signs of self-absorption is when someone is always calling the shots.
They make everything a competition.
Is this person always trying to one-up you?
Or in some cases, “one-down” you?
Neo explains that self-absorbed people always make everything a competition.
They use manipulation to get their way.
This is where you want to look out for other signs of narcissism, such asgaslightingandemotional abuse.
They always respond to your problems with toxic positivity.
They know how to mask their selfishness.
Similar to toxic positivity, there are other ways a self-absorbed person can “mask” their self-centeredness.
They’re always the center of attention.
Their openness might be charming at first.
Self-absorbed people can be very charming or interesting at first, Birkel notes.
How it affects the people around them.
“It’s exhausting, like someone’sstealing your energy,” Neo says.
“You dread the interaction before, during, and after.”
These are all hallmarks of aone-sided friendship.
Working through conflicts.
you’re free to suggest therapy, but ultimately the work is their own to do.
“You don’t want the goal to be making someone less self-centered.
Make your communication clear and cogent, Neo notes, taking time to plan your script beforehand if necessary.
“Expect bad behavior,” she says.
Once you’ve set your boundaries firmly, hold to them.
