Being Narcissus: Investigation of the Relationship Between Positive Narcissism and Spiritual Growth

About

Abstract

Narcissism has long been a controversial topic. Most social psychological research defines narcissism as a negative trait. The current study aims to transform narcissism into a more positive orientation by focusing on the concept of narcissism from a perspective other than medical pathology and integrating it with spiritual growth.

For the purposes of this study, I define narcissism as being attracted to self-excellence, being willing to make sustained efforts to maintain or improve this trait, and having a healthy, balanced sense of self. In my definition, positive narcissism is a process of self-exploration and self-healing, not just self-absorption. It is my hope that this research will reverse the stereotypes of narcissism and help more people recognize the importance of positive narcissism and find balance and inspiration in their spiritual growth.

To explore this topic, I created three different forms of artwork. By combining occultism with positive narcissism, the works convey my ideas about positive narcissism on different levels and guide the viewer in their own exploration. This research helps to expand one’s understanding of the relationship between the self and the universe and provides new perspectives for one’s own exploration.

Keyword：Narcissism, Self-exploration, Tarot, Spiritual Growth, Cognition

Introduction

The present study aims to reframe narcissism in a more constructive light, investigating how “narcissism” can transform negative emotions about the self and the outside world by penetrating the cognitive level. We examine the concept of narcissism from a perspective distinct from that of medical pathology, with the objective of discrediting the negative stereotypes associated with narcissism and exploring its positive aspects in a novel manner.

On the creative side, I am inspired by the occult. As a discipline that explores the relationship between human beings and supernatural forces and the nature of the universe, occultism is also closely related to self-knowledge and inner experience. One of my main focuses is spirituality. Spirituality is the life force within us, full of wisdom and energy, which enables us to explore our most primal mysteries. Spiritual growth can be defined as a process of moving from self-centeredness to a broader consciousness. This allows individuals to set aside their limited thinking and connect to their subconscious. Spirituality can be described as a kind of vitality that does not rely on logical thinking. By combining elements of the occult with positive narcissism, insight can be gained into the different dimensions of human perception of the self and the possibility of transcending everyday experience. The study of this subject matter contributes to the expansion of our understanding of the relationship between the self and the universe, as well as the development of methodologies for the exploration of this relationship.

The creation of three distinct forms of narcissism-themed artwork allows individuals to re-conceptualize themselves and consider the meaning and role of narcissism in a novel manner. The three works include stream-of-consciousness animation, images of tarot cards, and music for meditation, which transition individuals from figurative visual guidance to abstract spiritual perception. This process entails an exploration of the true self, a delving deeper into one’s personality traits and desires, the attainment of inner peace, and the inspiration to learn to “fall in love with oneself.” Rather than being perceived as mere self-indulgence, positive narcissism can be regarded as a process of self-exploration and self-healing.

The following paper is organized into three primary sections. Each section employs a distinct methodology to convey the author’s perspectives on positive narcissism, with the objective of facilitating the viewer’s introspective exploration. “Lovers in the Mirror “is an experimental frame-by-frame animation that explores the relationship between positive narcissism and negative cognition. The presentation of episodes with the dual meanings of narcissism and self-loathing creates an ineffable sense of contradiction, prompting viewers to re-examine and re-choose their own perceptions and to gain a new understanding and insight into narcissism.“ Narcissus Tarot “is a set of Vitus system tarot cards created with the theme of narcissism. The focus of this creation is on the drawing and design of the 22 Major Arcana decks, which are the most important cards in the whole set of tarot cards. The process of interacting with the cards and feeling the card patterns and energies provides spiritual inspiration and establishes a deep link with the self, thus initiating a journey of self-discovery. “Another” is a meditative music that can be listened to and immersed in, which allows for communication with the inner self and the development of new ideas about self-knowledge.

Positive Narcissism

Narcissism has been defined as negative throughout history and in most social psychological studies. The story of Narcissus in ancient Greek mythology can be seen as a prime example, where Narcissus eventually gives up on life and turns into a daffodil(narcissus) because of his overwhelming obsession with himself. Narcissism is seen as fragile, selfish, and vain, and people today are often hindered by such negative views when it comes to understanding narcissism (Campbell, 2001). In many cultures today, narcissism is easily misunderstood with pathological concepts such as narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), yet the positive and far-reaching effects of narcissism are virtually unnoticed. From a psychological and philosophical perspective, narcissism can be understood as the starting point of all eros and the perception of the ideal self; people’s love for everything is a narcissistic empathy, while self-loathing is a narcissistic over-empathy. In this paper, narcissism is defined as being genuinely attracted to one’s own good qualities and willing to work consistently to maintain or improve them, and having a healthy, balanced sense of self.

Narcissism has been a significant factor in the formation of my personality. Narcissism can be regarded as a tool to facilitate self-improvement, and there is a positive correlation between the development of relationships and self-growth when individuals are engaged in the process of self-improvement (Emmons, 1984). Subsequently, I will examine the more profound implications and meanings of narcissism.

The visual style employed in this artwork represents a visualisation of the personal image and temperament that I imagine and expect from my heart. The external image of a person is determined at birth and is not subject to change by the will of the person. Consequently, I present my inner ideal vision through the images I create.