I have always struggled with self-esteem, especially when it comes to RSD. To cope, I’ve found that repeating certain positive affirmations like “I can do anything,” “I’m awesome,” etc. helps me feel more confident in myself. It’s not about being arrogant, but more like a mental trick to push through my insecurities and feel better in the moment.
The thing is, some people around me are starting to accuse me of being a narcissist because of it. I’ll admit, part of me does enjoy the attention that comes with these affirmations, and for a while, I just leaned into it. But now it feels like it’s spiraling a bit out of control. I’m wondering if I’ve crossed some line between self-empowerment and self-centeredness.
I don’t want to seem arrogant or like I’m trying to manipulate anyone, but I really don’t know how else to keep my confidence up. Has anyone else experienced this? How do you manage the fine line between boosting your self-esteem and coming off as narcissistic, especially when dealing with ADHD or autism?
I totally get what you mean. Your concerns are valid. Being too self centered is a real problem, and it hurts our already fragile social relationships. I agree with what the others have said here, and I would add that I think self-love is a virtue in the middle of the spectrum between no confidence and too much confidence. Self care would be an Aristotelian virtue, a golden mean between two extremes.
Keeping oneself healthy and happy also allows us to tend to the needs and desires of others without overextending. It would be a disservice to oneself and others to fall into disrepair.