The word ‘narcissist’ is a word that is thrown around a lot these days, but some people really are true narcissists. While self-centered people can seem like narcissists, not all of them are.

Narcissism is something that comes in a lot of varieties. Some people can be extreme narcissists and others not so extreme. Being self-centered doesn’t mean you are ‘for sure’ a narcissist. You have to be showing other signs as well. Below I am going to go over some of the things that will help you tell the difference between the two. Sure, narcissists can be self-centered, but they aren’t just that and people need to be aware of this.

6 Differences Between Self-Centered People and True Narcissists:

1. Self-centered people have clear moral values, narcissists don’t.

Self-centered people might focus more on themselves, but they also know where to draw the line. Narcissists do not know where to draw the line. They think that even if a line were drawn crossing it would be fine.

2. Narcissists are much more manipulative than self-centered people.

Narcissists will go out of their way to manipulate others, self-centered people are not so extreme. They might want you to do something and try to convince you, but they won’t go out of their way to ruin your life if you don’t. Narcissists tend to be much more extreme with their tactics.

3. Self-centered people can be corrected, narcissists are usually lost causes.

Self-centered people are people you can usually sit down with and talk to about the issue at hand. Addressing a narcissist about his or her narcissistic behavior won’t get you anywhere though. They are two very different kinds of people.

4. Self-centered people are still good listeners, narcissists are not.

Self-centered people might talk about themselves a lot, but they are always there when you need them. They are good listeners sometimes and narcissists aren’t. Narcissists don’t care about your feelings or what is going on in your life unless it serves a purpose for them.

5. Narcissists don’t usually care about other people’s needs, self-centered people sometimes do.

Narcissists don’t usually care if you have what you need or if you’re alright. They are much more selfish than self-centered people are. They won’t help you when you’re in need, they will just cut you off and leave you to struggle.

6. Narcissists don’t feel remorse, self-centered people can/do.

Narcissists don’t feel bad when they hurt you. Self-centered people will feel bad most of the time and come to apologize. They still feel things on a level that most others do.