Things I learnt from my former narcissistic "friends" that improved my life

It can look like narcissistic or highly self-centered people live better lives than “good people,” but that doesn’t necessarily mean they actually have better lives. A few reasons this perception happens: 1. They may prioritize themselves aggressively. They ask for what they want, negotiate hard, and may take opportunities without worrying much about disappointing others. 2. Confidence can create opportunities. Someone who appears extremely confident may attract attention, relationships, promotions, or social status—even when that confidence isn't matched by character. 3. They often protect their image. You may see their money, relationships, achievements, or lifestyle while seeing none of their private conflicts or insecurity. 4. Good people can over-sacrifice. Being kind doesn't automatically mean having healthy boundaries. Someone who constantly gives, forgives, or avoids conflict can end up neglecting their own goals. 5. Short-term rewards aren't the same as long-term wellbeing. Manipulation, entitlement, or exploiting others can sometimes produce immediate advantages, but those behaviors can damage trust and relationships over time. 6. We notice unfairness more than ordinary success. When a dishonest person succeeds, it feels particularly significant because it clashes with our expectation that good behavior should always be rewarded. The important distinction is kindness vs. self-neglect. You don't have to become narcissistic to stop being taken advantage of. You can be generous and ambitious, compassionate and assertive, forgiving and capable of saying no. #nervoussystemregulation #narcissisticpeople