Still Wondering if YOU Are the Narcissist/Did They Finally “Get it?” - Introducing “Shelf Life”

“If I’m asking if I’m the narcissist, then Tony says I’m not!” Tony shares that he receives more feedback on this concept than any other from WUTN listeners. But what happens when the narcissist or emotionally immature person in your life gets ahold of this “script?” Does simply repeating this sentence elicit change? Tony details this question and introduces the concept of 'shelf life', a temporary behavioral change in emotionally immature people. We debate the question, 'If you're asking yourself if you're a narcissist, then are you one?' and touch on the use of therapy or self-help methods as tools for manipulation. As we progress through the episode, we discuss how 'John' used therapy to manipulate 'Emily' and appear as a problem solver rather than acknowledging his shortcomings. Overall, the episode is an insightful exploration of emotional immaturity, narcissistic traits, and manipulative behaviors in relationships.

00:00 Introduction and Story of John and Emily
01:27 The Breaking Point and Decision to Seek Therapy
02:09 Initial Therapy Session and Promises Made
03:22 The Short-lived Change and Return to Old Patterns
05:47 Understanding the Concept of 'Shelf Life' in Emotional Change
09:08 The Power of Writing and Self-Expression
15:04 The Narcissist's Reaction to the Podcast
16:27 Doubts, Confusion, and the Struggle to Stay Strong
32:53 Recognizing the Difference: Working on Things vs. Escaping Discomfort
33:15 The Narcissist in Therapy: A Case Study
33:37 The Power of Self-Questioning: Are You the Narcissist?
34:07 The Concept of Shelf Life and Positive Tension
34:37 The Nurtured Heart Approach: A Parenting Model
35:40 The Struggle of Change: A Personal Story
36:10 Trusting Your Gut: Recognizing Manipulation in Therapy
36:39 The Aha Moment: Acceptance and Curiosity
37:37 The Ultimatum: Divorce or Seek Help
39:40 The Journey of Awakening: Acknowledging the Past and Embracing the Future
40:05 The Reality of Narcissism: Recognizing Traits and Codependency
41:59 The Power of Community: Reading Comments from the Group
51:02 The Story of John and Emily: A Case Study on Shelf Life
52:39 Understanding Shelf Life: Temporary Behavioral Change
56:54 The Power of Self-Reflection: Embracing Solitude



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