In recent decades, much of the media has normalized the idea that we’re living in a self-obsessed era. While it may be easy to dismiss these claims as alarmist, there’s evidence that narcissism is on the rise.
Are You a Digital Narcissist?
A little more humility would serve us all.
April 10, 2023
HBR Staff; Tetra Images/Getty Images/rawpixel
Summary.
Research shows that scores on a clinical measure of narcissism increased by 30% in the U.S. between the late 1970s and the mid 2000s. Social media platforms that reward self-centered and exhibitionist behaviors may be the driver. The narcissistic habits many of us form online can easily bleed into other areas of our lives, including the workplace. If this trend continues, so will incompetent leadership and toxic work environments.
- The next generation of leaders can help lead change by encouraging and practicing humility. Humility is essentially the opposite of narcissism. Humble leaders seek to serve their employees before themselves and support people as they develop, overcome challenges, and grow.
- A company led by humble leaders is a company with a culture of learning. This kind of shift would benefit everyone by encouraging inclusivity, innovation, and mutual support. In this kind of environment, substance would trump style.
- We can all help bring more humility to the workplace by practicing it on a personal level, rewarding people for their genuine talents and efforts, and devaluing the traits that help narcissists thrive.