Narcissistic personality disorder can stand in the way of a person’s growth.

Everyone understands the effects of feeling superior. But having narcissistic personality disorder isn’t all bad. Although you should always control your ego, it can help you in some cases.

So what, if any, is the silver lining of having an NPD? Along with these, you must understand its signs and features.

What is narcissistic personality disorder?

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a disorder in which a person experiences significant feelings of superiority. He or she often spends time thinking about gaining power or being successful.

Those who have this condition have a great need for admiration. Narcissists often try to control the people around them. NPD begins in adulthood. It is a feature of romantic relationships when one partner tries to exert control over the other. You can also meet people with NPD in the workplace.

How do you know if someone has narcissistic personality disorder?

You may have proud people around you, but you are not sure if they are narcissistic. They may not have been diagnosed, but they are likely to have narcissistic personality disorder if they have the following traits.

First of all, they will have a developed ego. These people think that they are better off than others. They believe in the need to communicate with people of high social status, and they have the right to do so.

Also, you probably know some workaholics. You will likely find a narcissist or two among them. These people are very focused on strength and success. If they have manipulated you at some point, they are probably a narcissist.

Finally, those with NPD are rude, sometimes to the extreme. They are arrogant and show no regard for other people’s feelings.

You understand the negative effects of NPD

Like others, you may view NPD in a negative light. This was not surprising, given its undesirable consequences.

First of all, narcissists may be suicidal because of their failure to achieve their goals. They may become anxious or depressed.

Furthermore, people with NPD may have difficulty handling criticism. They lack social skills and struggle with their relationships as a result. Thus, they can withdraw from their loved ones. Sometimes, meaningful connections are missing from their lives.

Does narcissistic personality disorder have a silver lining?
So, is there any advantage to NPD? Owning your ego can help you in some ways, provided you don’t leave it unchecked. How is healthy narcissism useful?

1. NPD helps people advance their careers
   First of all, being a helpful narcissist when it comes to career development. Bart Willy et al. from Ghent University I studied how personality types affect financial success. They used The Five-Factor Personality Theory, or Neo Pi R, on college students and tracked them for 15 years. They found that those with narcissistic personalities advanced the most in their careers.
2. Narcissists make good leaders
   Also, it is easy for narcissists to become leaders. Explore how group leadership works. Find out that narcissists quickly become leaders. However, they were also bossy, according to their teammates. So with social and moral skills, narcissists can lead.
3. Develops adults
   Moreover, healthy narcissism helps adults. A study showed that it helps them become more independent and able to deal with failure.
4. You’ll take better care of yourself
   Besides, some worrying about yourself never hurts. A study revealed that narcissists have less social anxiety. Besides reducing your risk of depression, this will prompt you to project a healthy self-image.
5. It builds rapport
   Yes, NPD can destroy relationships. But this is narcissism on an unhealthy level.

A healthy degree of narcissism, combined with the right amount of self-esteem, will help you form bonds. A healthy relationship is one where you don’t always have to ask for a pat on the back.

How can you develop healthy narcissism and not narcissistic personality disorder?

You may desire narcissism without letting it get out of hand. How do you nurture it and keep it under control?

First of all, build your confidence. Love yourself without getting too caught up in you. Dress well without worrying about your appearance. Maintain a regular diet and exercise routine.

Also, if you are in a leadership position at work, find a balance between narcissism and assertiveness. Don’t ignore other people’s opinions and know when to let go of your control.

Finally, put yourself in other people’s shoes. Consider their feelings. Remind yourself to consider their needs.