Self-absorption is one of the most common personality traits that people exhibit.
Individuals who are self-absorbed often have their attention focused solely on themselves and their own interests, disregarding the feelings, thoughts, and needs of others. Here are seven common traits of self-absorbed people.
Trait #1: They talk excessively about themselves
One of the most obvious traits of people who are self-absorbed is that they tend to dominate conversations.
They talk excessively about themselves, their opinions, their accomplishments, and their experiences, without any regard for the other person’s interests or feelings. They may interrupt others and steer the conversation back to themselves.
Trait #2: They lack empathy
Self-absorbed people demonstrate a lack of empathy towards others.
They don’t take the time to understand or acknowledge how others feel and they often bulldoze their way through situations without taking into consideration how their actions may impact others. They may come across as insensitive or dismissive of other people’s concerns.
Trait #3: They have a sense of entitlement
Self-absorbed people often exhibit a sense of entitlement. They believe that they are entitled to special treatment and attention because they are more important than others.
They may feel deserving of things that other people have worked hard for, or feel like the rules don’t apply to them.
Trait #4: They lack self-awareness
Self-absorbed individuals often lack self-awareness. They don’t recognize how their actions and behavior affect others, and they may not see how their behavior may be selfish or rude.
They may come across as oblivious to how they appear to others, or seem uninterested in their impact on the world around them.
Trait #5: They are always seeking attention
Self-absorbed people are often looking for attention and validation from others. They may dress flamboyantly or draw attention to themselves in a variety of ways.
They may monopolize conversations, make everything about them, or act dramatically in order to garner attention. Their behavior can be exhausting for others around them.
Trait #6: They find it difficult to apologize
Self-absorbed people often struggle to apologize or admit when they are wrong. They may feel that they are never at fault, or that they are always justified in their behavior.
They may avoid taking responsibility for their actions, or deflect blame onto others, rather than owning up to their mistakes and trying to make things right.
Trait #7: They don’t take feedback well
Self-absorbed individuals often have a difficult time taking feedback or criticism. They may become defensive or dismissive when confronted with feedback, or they may resort to blaming or attacking the person who is offering the feedback.
They may see criticism as a personal attack, rather than an opportunity to grow and improve.
Conclusion
Self-absorption can be a difficult and frustrating trait to deal with. While self-absorbed people may have their own reasons for their behavior, it is important to recognize the impact that their behavior can have on those around them.
If you find yourself dealing with a self-absorbed person, it may be helpful to set boundaries, communicate your needs clearly, and try to understand where they are coming from. With patience and understanding, it may be possible to have a productive and respectful relationship with a self-absorbed individual.