Understanding Narcissism in Personal Interactions
Intro
Navigating interactions with individuals who exhibit narcissistic traits can feel like walking a tightrope. The complexities involved, often underscored by a mix of charm, entitlement, and a lack of empathy, can leave those on the receiving end feeling drained and confused. Understanding how to manage these relationships is crucial. The foundations of self-care, clear boundaries, and a mindful approach provide a sturdy framework for dealing with narcissism.
This article intends to shed light on the labyrinth of narcissism, offering keen insights into its defining characteristics and the potential consequences on interpersonal dynamics. As we take this journey, readers will learn practical strategies for recognizing narcissistic behavior, fostering resilience, and protecting their mental health amidst tumultuous interactions.
Equipped with knowledge, one can face these encounters with clarity and strength. Keeping mental well-being as a priority, let us explore the foundational aspect of mindfulness in navigating these complex interactions.
Understanding Narcissism
Navigating the intricate dynamics of narcissism is crucial for individuals who find themselves interacting with narcissistic behavior, whether in personal relationships or professional contexts. Understanding narcissism is akin to shining a light on a shadowy figure; once illuminated, the nuances become clearer, allowing one to identify their characteristics and effects. This section will delve into the essence of narcissism, focusing on its definition, the historical background, and prevailing traits that can help individuals recognize these behavior patterns in others.
Defining Narcissistic Personality
At its core, narcissistic personality is marked by self-centeredness, a profound need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. The term itself stems from the myth of Narcissus, a figure so entranced by his own reflection that he lost sight of everything else. This self-absorption manifests in various forms, from grandiose sense of self-importance to a preoccupation with success and power.
In clinical psychology, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is categorized under personality disorders, but not every show of narcissistic traits equates to a full-blown diagnosis. Many exhibit these characteristics in less severe forms, which can still lead to problematic social interactions. Recognizing the defining characteristics of narcissism includes:
- Entitlement: Narcissistic individuals often feel they deserve special treatment.
- Exploitation: They may take advantage of others to achieve their own ends.
- Arrogance: This often wraps their interactions, making them dismissive of others' feelings and achievements.
Historical Context of Narcissism
The understanding of narcissism has evolved remarkably over the years. Initially, the concept was described through mythological lenses, but by the time of Sigmund Freud in the early twentieth century, it began taking on a psychological dimension. Freud considered it a stage of development, essential to personality formation.
The 1960s brought heightened cultural fascination with self-identity, further embedding narcissistic tendencies in Western norms. The rise of social media in later decades exasperated these traits, fostering environments where self-promotion often supersedes genuine connection. This context sets the stage for many current issues surrounding narcissism, as individuals grapple with their self-image against a backdrop of curated online lives.
Common Traits of Narcissistic Individuals
Identifying a narcissistic individual can be tricky without knowledge of specific behaviors. Here are some common traits that tend to mark such personalities:
- Exaggerated achievements: Narcissistic individuals may regularly boast about their successes.
- Lack of empathy: They often struggle to connect with others’ emotions, making situations overwhelmingly about themselves.
- Constant need for validation: Their self-esteem hinges on external approval, creating a cycle of dependency on praise.
- Fragile pride: Often, the facade of confidence masks deep insecurities, leading them to react defensively to criticism.
By familiarizing oneself with these traits, it becomes easier to distinguish between narcissistic individuals and those who simply exhibit self-confidence. Recognizing these markers not only helps in navigating relationships but also in protecting one's own mental health.
"Understanding narcissism is the first step in regaining control over your interactions with those who exhibit its traits."
In sum, gaining insight into narcissism sets the groundwork for better handling interactions. By demystifying narcissistic behavior, individuals empower themselves with the knowledge to foster healthier relationships.
The Psychology Behind Narcissism
Understanding the psychology behind narcissism is essential for grasping why and how narcissistic behaviors manifest in relationships. This topic not only sheds light on the root causes of such behavior but also guides individuals towards practical strategies for navigating these complex interpersonal dynamics. By recognizing these psychological factors, readers can better comprehend the motivations behind narcissism and equip themselves with the tools needed to establish healthier interactions.
Early Development and Influences
The journey to becoming a narcissist often begins early in life, shaped by various developmental influences. Children who experience excessive praise or unrelenting criticism during formative years may develop an inflated self-image or deep-seated insecurity, respectively.
- Parental Style: A parent who lavishes their child with admiration without setting boundaries may nurture grandiose self-perception. Conversely, those criticized by their caretakers may cling to an inflated ego as a defense mechanism against feelings of inadequacy.
- Emotional Neglect: When a child's emotional needs go unmet—whether due to a caregiver's unavailability or inconsistent support—they can internalize feelings of unworthiness. As a protective mechanism, they might adopt a narcissistic persona to shield themselves from emotional vulnerability.
Recognizing these early influences allows individuals to approach narcissism with empathy, understanding that behind the facade of arrogance often lies a fragile sense of self.
The Role of Defense Mechanisms
Defense mechanisms are critical in the narcissistic individual's psyche. These unconscious strategies protect their self-esteem while keeping their insecurities at bay. Here are some common mechanisms:
- Denial: Narcissists often deny interpersonal conflicts or their own shortcomings. They view critiques as attacks, avoiding any introspection that could disrupt their carefully constructed self-image.
- Projection: Frequently, they project their own feelings of inadequacy onto others. For instance, if they feel anger toward themselves, they may accuse someone else of being angry or hostile.
- Splitting: This involves viewing the world in black-and-white terms, categorizing people as either entirely good or completely bad. This mechanism simplifies complex emotions, making it easier for narcissists to navigate relationships without the discomfort of ambiguity.
Understanding these defense mechanisms illuminates the internal struggles narcissists face. Instead of merely judging their behavior, individuals can learn to respond with strategies that minimize conflict and promote healthier exchanges.
Impact of Societal Factors
Societal influences also play a significant role in the development of narcissism. In an era dominated by social media, the projection of curated lifestyles can exacerbate narcissistic tendencies by creating an environment where self-worth is linked to external validation.
- Cultural Norms: In cultures that prioritize individual achievement and success, narcissism can thrive. The pressure to be the best can lead individuals to adopt a self-centered mentality, encouraging behaviors associated with narcissism.
- Role Models: Celebrities and influencers often embody and promote narcissistic traits, sometimes leading to their adoption by the public. People may unknowingly mimic this behavior, seeking fame or admiration, too.
This societal backdrop creates a fertile ground for narcissism, leading to a cycle where personal self-worth is measured against societal expectations. Understanding these factors can empower individuals to resist such pressures and focus on cultivating genuine, empathetic relationships.
"As society evolves, it is vital to acknowledge the factors that influence behavior and shape the intricate landscape of human interactions."
In the end, deciphering the psychology behind narcissism enriches our understanding of ourselves and frees us from the illusions that often cloud our judgment in relationships with narcissistic individuals.
Identifying Narcissistic Behavior
Recognizing the signs of narcissism is crucial for anyone navigating relationships infused with this challenging trait. This process is more than just a mental exercise; it’s about safeguarding one’s mental well-being while fostering healthier, more authentic interactions. Identifying narcissistic behavior can form the foundation for effective strategies in personal and professional environments, allowing individuals to create boundaries that discourage harmful dynamics. The nuances of narcissistic behavior can often be subtle, thus making the identification process both crucial and complex in real-life situations.
Signs of Narcissistic Abuse
Narcissistic abuse is a term that can make people uneasy, but it’s vital to understand its markers. Individuals involved in such relationships may find themselves questioning their sanity. Some clear signs of narcissistic abuse include:
- Constant criticism: Victims often face relentless belittling of their achievements or potential, leading to self-doubt and insecurity.
- Lack of empathy: A noticeable absence of compassion often marks narcissistic individuals’ behavior; they might disregard the feelings of others entirely.
- Emotional rollercoasters: The ebb and flow of affection can create instability. Victims might experience fleeting moments of connection, followed by enduring periods of neglect or contempt.
Recognizing these signs can be liberating, providing a pathway to reclaim one's self-worth and establish boundaries.
By identifying what constitutes narcissistic abuse, individuals can begin to detach from these toxic environments, enhancing their emotional resilience and reinforcing their self-esteem.
Understanding Gaslighting Techniques
Gaslighting is one of the most insidious tactics employed by narcissists. It involves manipulating someone into doubting their perceptions, memories, or feelings. Here are some typical gaslighting techniques:
- Denying reality: A narcissist might refuse to acknowledge past events, leading their victim to question their memory or sanity.
- Trivializing feelings: Statements like "You’re overreacting" minimize genuine emotions, leaving the victim feeling invalidated and confused.
- Diverting blame: When confronted, a narcissist may flip the situation, directing the focus onto the other person and evading accountability.
Understanding these techniques can serve as a shield, helping individuals identify when manipulation occurs, thereby preserving emotional clarity in interactions.
Recognizing Emotional Manipulation
Emotional manipulation is another common tactic used by narcissists. This can take various forms, often leaving individuals entangled in a web of guilt or obligation. Key indicators include:
- Feeling responsible: Often, victims feel as if they must adjust their behavior to please or avoid conflict.
- Using guilt: Manipulative individuals may use guilt to control others, saying things like, "I can’t believe you would do that to me!"
- Appearing vulnerable: Narcissists may fake vulnerability to elicit sympathy and manipulate emotions, creating a cyclical pattern of dependency.
Recognizing these forms of manipulation helps in disentangling from a narcissist's grip, promoting healthier emotional expressions and reclaiming one’s sense of autonomy.
Identifying narcissistic behavior, especially in the form of abuse, gaslighting, and emotional manipulation, lays the groundwork for developing effective strategies to protect oneself. By understanding these dynamics, individuals can navigate complexities more confidently and prioritize their own mental health.
Impacts of Narcissism on Relationships
Narcissism doesn’t just affect the individual; it’s like a pebble dropped in a pond, sending ripples across the lives of those around them. Navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals can be particularly challenging, and understanding the effects on various types of connections is crucial for one's mental well-being. This section aims to dissect how narcissism shapes interactions within families, friendships, and workplaces. By illuminating these dynamics, individuals might better adept themselves to handle the adversities that arise, hence protecting their emotional health.
Effects on Family Dynamics
When a narcissistic person is embedded in a family, the atmosphere can feel tense, like a balloon on the verge of bursting. Emotional support is often one-sided; the narcissist demands attention and admiration while others feel neglected.
Common consequences include:
- Constant Criticism: Narcissistic parents or siblings often make those around them feel inferior, leaving scars that can last a lifetime.
- Role Reversal: Children may find themselves caring for a parent who should, in a healthy dynamic, be the caretaker.
- Manipulation: Family events can turn into battlegrounds for narcissists to showcase their superiority, often at the cost of others' peace.
These family dynamics can lead to estrangement or ongoing psychological distress for family members. Recognizing the patterns can help mitigate harm and foster healthier relationships or at least better coping strategies.
Challenges in Friendships
Friendships with narcissistic individuals can often feel like walking a tightrope, where balance is tenuous and one misstep could result in a fallout. Initially, such friendships might seem glamorous, but they often succum to turmoil.
Friends may experience:
- Emotional Exhaustion: Constantly catering to a narcissist can drain the life out of the relationship.
- Competition for Attention: Narcissists often overshadow their friends, turning social scenarios into competitions for validation.
- Transactional Nature: The friendship may begin to feel transactional, where the narcissist gives only to receive; loyalty is rarely reciprocated.
Over time, genuine connection diminishes, replaced by an uncomfortable cycle of appeasing and defending oneself. For many, it might be necessary to re-evaluate such friendships and consider if the emotional toll is worth it.
Workplace Interactions and Rivalry
In a workplace setting, narcissism can manifest as a double-edged sword. On the one hand, narcissistic individuals may exhibit a certain charisma and drive, often receiving accolades and promotions. On the other hand, their impact can create a toxic work environment, leading to high levels of stress among colleagues.
Key challenges include:
- Unfair Competition: Narcissists may take credit for others’ work, weakening team morale.
- Lack of Collaboration: Their self-interest can hinder teamwork, fostering an atmosphere of distrust.
- Manipulative Communication: Colleagues might frequently find themselves second-guessing their capabilities due to belittling comments or gaslighting.
Overall, being acquainted with the nuances of such relationships can ease the burden of working beside a narcissist, allowing one to focus more on their professional responsibilities rather than getting entangled in emotional messes.
Understanding the different impacts of narcissism on relationships provides insight crucial for developing coping mechanisms and strategies. Awareness is the first step; by recognizing toxic patterns, individuals can engage in healthier interactions, preserving their mental wellness in the long run.
Effective Strategies for Dealing with Narcissism
Understanding how to handle interactions with narcissistic individuals isn't just about protecting oneself; it's often centered on enhancing personal mental well-being. Recognizing that narcissism can create a toxic environment puts the spotlight on the necessity of implementing strategic measures. By cultivating these strategies, individuals can not only defend their emotional health but also gain a clearer sense of direction in their dealings with narcissistic behaviors.
Establishing and Maintaining Boundaries
Boundaries serve as a fundamental cornerstone in navigating relationships marked by narcissism. Setting clear limits helps define what is acceptable behavior and what is not. These boundaries should be communicated directly but with tact, making it clear that while one values the relationship, certain actions are off-limits. Without boundaries, a person may find themselves compromising their own values and experiences emotional exhaustion.
To establish effective boundaries, consider the following approaches:
- Be Clear: State your limits upfront without ambiguity. This reduces the chances of misinterpretation.
- Stay Consistent: Enforce your boundaries consistently. It's easy for narcissists to test limits, so remain steadfast in what you’ve communicated.
- Be Prepared for Pushback: Understand that a narcissistic individual may react negatively when confronted with boundaries. Anticipate this potential discomfort and prepare to stand firm.
Practicing Assertiveness
Assertiveness is an often overlooked, yet essential tool when interacting with narcissistic people. It empowers individuals to speak up for their needs without being aggressive. Practicing assertiveness fosters a stronger sense of self-confidence and encourages clearer communication, thereby reducing misunderstandings and the likelihood of manipulation.
When asserting oneself, focus on:
- Using "I" Statements: Frame comments in a way that expresses your feelings without blaming the other person, like "I feel overwhelmed when conversations always center around you."
- Maintaining Composure: Stay calm and composed, even in the face of provocations. Remaining level-headed shows emotional strength.
- Restating Your Needs: It may be necessary to repeat your point multiple times. Narcissistic individuals might not respond right away, so patience is key.
Engaging in Mindfulness Techniques
Mindfulness techniques offer a powerful way to regain control over one’s emotional landscape when dealing with narcissism. These practices encourage individuals to pause, reflect, and create distance from emotional turmoil initiated by narcissistic interactions. Different techniques can cater to varying preferences.
Meditation Practices
Meditation practices form a solid foundation for mindfulness. They encourage individuals to focus on the present moment, promoting clarity amidst chaos. This technique includes deep-breathing exercises or guided imagery, which are essential in stabilizing one's feelings and reducing anxiety. The key characteristic of meditation is its ability to foster inner peace, making it a beneficial choice for those feeling overwhelmed by narcissistic behaviors.
Unique Feature: The flexibility of meditation practices allows them to be tailored to individual needs, providing various styles to suit different preferences. However, results may vary depending on consistency and commitment to the practice.
Grounding Exercises
Grounding exercises are another practical mindfulness technique, helping individuals connect to the present moment. They work by directing attention away from negative sensations and thoughts, bringing focus to the here and now. Common methods include using physical sensations like feeling the texture of an object or noticing surrounding sounds.
Unique Feature: The simplicity of grounding exercises makes them accessible to anyone, at any time, which is a distinct advantage. They can be done in public or private spaces but might seem ineffective if one is too stressed to engage fully.
Self-reflection Methods
Self-reflection methods provide an avenue for processing experiences and emotions related to narcissistic interactions. Journaling or contemplating one’s feelings allows for deeper insights into personal triggers and responses. By regularly reflecting, individuals can better identify patterns and develop effective coping strategies.
Unique Feature: Self-reflection can facilitate growth, enriching one’s approach to handling future encounters. That said, it requires honesty and can provoke uncomfortable feelings, making it a challenging but invaluable tool.
In summary, dealing with narcissism necessitates a mix of strong boundaries, assertiveness, and mindfulness techniques. Together, these strategies empower individuals to manage their relationships without sacrificing their mental health. By adopting them, you can reclaim your narrative and foster a healthier emotional environment.
Self-Care and Resilience Building
In the realm of dealing with narcissism, self-care and resilience building play an instrumental role. Engaging with narcissistic individuals can deplete one's emotional reserves, often leaving feelings of anxiety, frustration, and inadequacy in its wake. Thus, prioritizing self-care becomes not just beneficial, but essential to maintaining mental health and personal well-being.
Self-care involves more than just treating oneself to some leisure activities or having a spa day. It’s about fostering a sense of personal worth and ensuring that one’s emotional and physical needs are met consistently. The purpose is to create a stable foundation from which to interact with narcissism, allowing one to approach difficult situations with clarity and strength.
Developing Personal Resilience
Personal resilience refers to an individual's ability to adapt and bounce back from challenging situations. In the context of narcissistic interactions, developing resilience can mean having the tools to cope when faced with manipulation or emotional turmoil.
It’s all about recognizing that setbacks are part of life. Building a resilient mindset encourages self-efficacy and promotes proactive approaches, such as understanding one’s own triggers and reactions. For instance, keeping a journal can help track emotional responses and patterns, offering insights into areas that require further work. By fostering this adaptability, individuals can manage their expectations and maintain a clearer perspective on the dynamics of their relationships.
Importance of Support Networks
Support networks are invaluable when navigating the often twisted paths of narcissistic interactions. Whether through friends, family, or professional connections, having a solid support system provides not only practical assistance but also emotional bolstering.
Connections with understanding individuals bring a level of comfort and validation that can counteract the feelings of isolation often imposed by narcissistic dynamics. A conversation with a trusted friend can illuminate perspectives that might have been clouded by emotional distress. Therefore, it’s prudent to cultivate these connections, not only for direct support but also for the emotional nourishment they provide.
Engaging in Therapeutic Practices
Therapeutic practices can offer significant relief and guidance. They help in processing experiences and emotions, ultimately fostering greater understanding of personal boundaries and needs. Below are three key therapeutic practices to consider.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy is a tailor-made approach where one can delve deeply into personal experiences. This form of therapy allows individuals to focus on their inner thoughts and feelings in a safe environment. One strong characteristic of individual therapy is its personalized nature, enabling therapists to guide individuals at their own pace.
This is a favored choice for many as it often leads to profound self-discovery, helping to dismantle deeply-rooted beliefs about self-worth that may be affected by narcissistic influences. The unique feature here is the one-on-one attention, which can provide a sense of validation and ownership over one's narrative. However, it can also bring challenges, as it might sometimes lead individuals to confront uncomfortable truths without the immediate support of peers.
Group Support
Group support harnesses the collective strength of a community where individuals share similar experiences. This form of support creates a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of alienation. One of the key characteristics is the opportunity for members to learn from each other, sharing coping strategies that have proven beneficial.
Such networks can be particularly compelling for those dealing with narcissism, as hearing different perspectives can shine a light on personal situations. The group dynamic also offers a measure of comfort when discussing experiences that may otherwise feel shameful or isolating. Unique to group support is the familial environment it fosters, yet it may lack the depth of personal exploration found in individual settings.
Workshops
Workshops provide structured learning environments, offering resources on navigating narcissistic interactions while promoting personal growth. Key to workshops is the experiential learning aspect, usually involving discussions, interactive activities, and role-playing scenarios to help participants practice new skills in a supportive setting.
The benefits of workshops include networking opportunities with others facing similar struggles, as well as gaining practical skills that can be immediately applied in daily life. One unique feature of workshops, however, can be the variability in facilitator quality and group dynamics, which may affect personal experiences. They can sometimes be overwhelming, depending on the group size or energy.
Long-term Strategies for Success
Navigating interactions with individuals who exhibit narcissistic traits isn't a one-time effort; it requires ongoing strategies that can effectively fortify a person's mental health and emotional resilience. Understanding the importance of long-term strategies is crucial. A thoughtful approach not only helps in dealing with narcissists but also empowers individuals to maintain a sense of self-worth and confidence. This section dives into three pivotal strategies that can help promote success over time:
Continuous Personal Growth
Engagement in continuous personal growth is fundamental when one is frequently interacting with narcissistic individuals. It emphasizes a lifelong journey of self-discovery and improvement. Individuals should seek ways to enhance their knowledge and personal skills, which can enable them to better manage such complex relationships.
- Self-reflection: Taking time to introspect and understand one's values, triggers, and emotional responses can lead to greater self-awareness.
- Goal Setting: Establishing clear, achievable goals can lead to a sense of purpose, making it easier to navigate challenging interactions.
- Feedback Mechanisms: Engaging with trusted friends or counselors can provide insights into one's behavior, helping to identify areas for growth and adaptation.
"Personal growth is not just about changing what's wrong; it’s also about amplifying what’s right inside you."
Such strategies enhance an individual's resilience over time, equipping them with the skills to deal with narcissism more effectively.
Creating a Positive Environment
A positive environment can significantly influence one's ability to manage narcissistic dynamics. Surrounding oneself with supportive friends and family creates a buffer against negative interactions. Here are a few considerations for crafting this environment:
- Choose Your Circle Wisely: Engage with people who uplift and inspire you rather than drain your energy. Nurture relationships that are constructive and rewarding.
- Boundary Reinforcement: Make sure to set boundaries that are respected by those in your circle. This not only validates your own needs but also establishes a template for interactions beyond your immediate environment.
- Positive Engagement: Incorporate activities and discussions that encourage positive thinking and emotional support. This can include book clubs, art classes, or mindfulness groups, where your worth as a person is acknowledged and celebrated.
Engaging in Ongoing Education
Education is a powerful tool in understanding narcissism and improving personal strategies. Engaging in ongoing education helps demystify the behaviors associated with narcissistic individuals and equips you with effective coping mechanisms. Educational avenues include:
- Workshops: Participate in workshops aimed at personal development or relationship dynamics. These serve as valuable platforms for learning and sharing experiences with others who might be facing similar challenges.
- Online Courses: Various platforms offer courses focusing on emotional intelligence, resilience, and understanding psychological manipulation. Sites like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera can be resourceful in this regard.
- Reading Materials: Delving into books and research papers about narcissism can broaden your understanding and provide strategies rooted in psychological expertise. Authors like M. Scott Peck or Dr. Linda Hartley have published works that could be vital for those seeking deeper insights.
Finale
Understanding how to navigate interactions with narcissism is not just an academic exercise; it's a crucial aspect of maintaining one's mental health and well-being. The complexity of narcissistic behavior can be deeply frustrating and exhausting, but getting a handle on these traits enables individuals to develop better coping mechanisms. It’s important to recognize the signs early on and to establish frameworks that allow for healthy interactions or, if necessary, distance itself from toxic behaviors.
In this article, we explored various aspects of narcissism, emphasizing how understanding its roots can lead to more informed, mindful interactions. There’s a significant advantage in recognizing narcissistic traits, whether in family settings, workplaces, or casual friendships. The psychological mechanisms at play help paint a broader picture of why individuals behave the way they do, allowing for more empathy yet protecting oneself from emotional harm.
- Enhanced Awareness: Recognizing narcissistic traits can help in planning your approach.
- Developed Strategies: Understanding the dynamics leads to using effective techniques such as boundary-setting and assertiveness.
- Improved Mental Resilience: By prioritizing self-care and support networks, individuals can regain emotional balance and safeguard their mental health.
By considering all elements discussed throughout the article, it becomes evident that knowledge is not just power; it is a means of fostering resilience and empowerment. In a world where narcissism often runs rampant, being equipped with the right tools can make all the difference.
Summary of Key Takeaways
This article highlighted essential takeaways regarding navigating interactions with narcissistic individuals. Below are the critical insights:
- Identification of Traits: Knowing the common signs of narcissistic behavior aids in early detection and avoidance of greater emotional harm.
- Setting Boundaries: It's imperative to establish and communicate what is acceptable and what is not in any interaction.
- Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness and self-care enable individuals to process their experiences thoughtfully, reducing the emotional drain that comes with dealing with narcissism.
Final Thoughts on Managing Narcissism
Facing narcissistic behavior is like walking a tightrope; it requires balance, focus, and sometimes the courage to step away. While it may be tempting to engage in futile arguments with narcissists, well-thought-out strategies often yield better outcomes. The onus is not solely on the narcissist to change; individuals must also commit to their personal journey of growth and self-awareness.
Through ongoing education and the willingness to adapt one’s approach, individuals can foster healthier relationships, both with themselves and others. Understanding narcissism in all its facets not only aids in interactions but also serves as a reminder of the strength of personal boundaries and the necessity of self-compassion. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and taking care of your own mental health is not just important, it is essential.
