I Carry My Narcissism Unapologetically

Chetan N Rao
The True Sparks
Published in
3 min readDec 2, 2023

In a world quick to label narcissism as a negative trait, I stand unapologetically with my own version of it. It's a perspective that often surprises others, including my friends, but it's one that has served me positively in many ways. While society tends to view narcissism through a lens of skepticism and disapproval, I've embraced it as a tool for personal growth and resilience.

Pride in Appearance: Just like a lion, majestic and unashamed, I take immense pride in my appearance. There’s no shyness or embarrassment in how I present my body, my face, or my piercing gaze. There is a parallel between human and animalistic qualities. A lion, in its beautiful yet dangerous aura, is admired and feared. Similarly, while people may be wary of the intensity that comes with narcissistic traits, they can’t help but acknowledge the compelling presence it brings. This comparison captures the essence of how I embrace my narcissism - powerful, unapologetic, and respected from a distance.

Healthy Narcissism: Narcissism exists on a spectrum, and not all of its forms are inherently detrimental. I’ve cultivated what I consider a healthy level of narcissism. I score low on empathy but I don’t lack it completely; rather, I choose self-focus and high personal standards. My narcissism pushes me to excel and stand out, fueling my drive for success. It’s about setting the bar high, not just for myself but also for those around me.

The Role of Empathy in Today's World: Empathy is often celebrated as a cornerstone of humanity, yet I argue that it should be used sparingly. In my view, our society sometimes over-emphasizes empathy, potentially leading to a culture less resilient than that of our ancestors. Were they empathetic, or were they tough? I posit that their toughness didn't stem from coddling or being coddled. In this light, narcissism can be seen as a force that propels one forward, a necessary counterbalance to a world that might otherwise promote a sense of complacency.

Self-Awareness and Social Dynamics: One intriguing aspect of narcissism is its role in understanding others. It’s a paradoxical notion but one I believe in: to spot a narcissist, one must understand narcissism and perhaps even embody some of its traits. In embracing my narcissism, I may be vulnerable to being associated with the traits of narcissism, one such trait is ‘manipulative’. I would any day take the risk of appearing manipulative rather than being subject to manipulation.

Embracing My Uniqueness: At the heart of my philosophy is the belief that I am the architect of my own destiny. I refuse to wait passively for opportunities; instead, I use my narcissistic traits to create them. It's a mindset that sees narcissism not as a flaw but as a catalyst, a force that compels the world to recognize my worth as I do.

In conclusion, my unapologetic acceptance of narcissism is not a dismissal of empathy or human connection. Instead, it’s a conscious choice to embrace a part of me that society often shuns. I’ve embraced a unique way to navigate life’s challenges and opportunities, standing out in a world that sometimes favors conformity over individuality.

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Chetan N Rao
The True Sparks

Chetan is a technology leader, with a diverse background in computer engineering, management, public speaking , strategy and high fashion. www.thetruesparks.com