Narcissism isn’t just one-size-fits-all, and the more I’ve learned, the clearer it becomes that it touches everyday life in ways we don’t always recognize at first. Some people display it loudly through arrogance, while others manage to pull it off with a polished charm that makes you second-guess your own instincts. What struck me most was the description of vulnerable narcissism, how insecurity can mask itself in manipulative ways that quietly drain you over time. Looking back, it explains a lot about certain patterns I’ve seen in people I once trusted. It’s unsettling, but also freeing to have words for what felt so confusing before. The
article put these variations into perspective, showing that it’s not just about big egos but also about control, validation, and how people present themselves differently depending on the type. It’s the kind of insight that makes you rethink how you set boundaries and protect your own energy.