Ep. 91: On Nafs and Narcissism: Managing Our Reactions - Aaatifa Shareef

ImanWire Podcast

Dealing with a narcissist can be an unpleasant experience, whether it is in our family, workplace or community. How does narcissism connect with the Islamic discourse on the nafs and self-purification? Aaatifa Shareef, a professional licensed counselor and instructor at Qalam Institute, bridges the fields of modern psychology and Islamic knowledge to discuss how we can manage our relationships with narcissists who can make our lives very difficult. CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Narcissist-in-Chief and the Nafs 13:03 - Diagnosis and the Balance of Psychology and Islamic Knowledge 21:34 - A Strong Sense of Self vs. Self-Admiration 32:26 - Dealing With Problematic Family Members 35:26 - Severing Ties 37:13 - Ihsaan, Birr & Boundaries 42:22 - Only Human: Not Letting It Affect Us 52:39 - Drawing Attention to Narcissism in a Loving Way 57:33 - Finding a Support System 1:01:29 - Respecting the Elderly vs. Questioning the Family 1:04:21 - Institutional Leadership 1:12:22 - Getting Cut Off 1:15:58 - Self-Care Regimen