People with Narcissistic Personality Disorder are often intensely self-critical and impatient, even angry, at their own flaws and vulnerabilities, seeing them as the enemies to success, greatness and acceptance.

In a long-standing relationship with someone who has pathological narcissistic traits, anyone can begin to absorb criticism, impatience and frustration with the anxious, vulnerable and struggling parts of themselves.

That's why healing for those who struggle with their own pathological narcissism and those who have been harmed by hurtful and abusive behaviours in relationships must start with self-compassion.

Rather than rejecting, berating or punishing our anxious selves, we can learn to soothe them, take care of them and encourage them. We can accept anxiety as we take courageous steps to nurture growth and development. As we do, our anxious and vulnerable selves can become more secure, steady and calm, even in anxiety-provoking situations.

Our anxious selves need us to commit to them with patience, compassion and persistence. Whilst this may sound fluffy and soft, being the steady, secure and committed adult our vulnerable selves needs requires is to find strength, courage and dedication from deep within. If you do, you may find that you can nurture compassionate, creative and accepting relationships with yourself and those closest to you.

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