Every day we engage in conversations rooted in ritual and social norms. With no conscious effort, we shift from one role to another. One minute, I’m a husband happily cooking breakfast with his wife. Shortly after, I’m meeting a client for lunch as a trusted advisor. And at the end of the day, I’m having cocktails with a friend as a confidant. No matter who we’re interacting with, our emotions, wants, worries, and judgments are embedded in each conversation.

For a long time, it was unclear why narcissists engage in unpleasant behaviors, such as self-congratulation, as it actually makes others think less of them.

Narcissists are not grandiose, but rather insecure, and this is how they seem to cope with their insecurities.

Egocentric people go through their lives believing unconsciously they are inert and helpless, the "impotent personality."

Impotent to mean helpless, ineffective, weak, lacking in vigor, and unable to take effective action. Characteristics of the impotent personality include being demanding, capricious, irresponsible, arrogant, whimsical, and insatiable. They blame others for their own deficiencies.

Here are three strategies to consider if you're a recovering narcissist or desire to be.

1. Understand your personality better, and its plusses and minuses.

2. Find someone insightful you're willing to take advice from.

3. Consider embracing the label.