[shakespeare47]

I've been considering this... and I know the MH community appears to be slow to see the positive qualities of NPD and NPD traits. And I wondered myself if there was anything positive.

But, I think I came up with a few.
First of all, we tend to believe in ourselves (we have confidence), that confidence can translate into success, if it is harnessed properly (be honest about strengths and weaknesses). How or why would someone become successful unless they believed they were capable or worthy?

Secondly, that desire for attention can be used to entertain others. I can't blame comedians for wanting to entertain.. the attention they get must fulfill so many needs, and can be quite addictive, I'm sure. Think of how narcissistic most entertainers are. Yet, I love them..... they make my life better, and the world is a better place because of them.

Anyone else?

Good question!! It's almost like the benefits are in the same as the negatives. I can tell you this, I do wish my mind did work differently as I truly believe this is much more of a curse than really any benefit it may have. Healthy narcissism is beneficial, our made up worlds..... Not so much!!

[Onward2wards]

There is a concept of "healthy narcissism", eg. a sense of solid self-worth and competency, neither too pessimistic nor too optimistic, without exaggerated ego defenses.

[shakespeare47]

I think the worst thing about NPD traits is the desire to see oneself as almost perfect... like others deserve criticism for their "flaws" but not us..
And their is the propensity for us to have blind spots about our flaws and true abilities.

But, again, the benefits are that we keep going on... continuing to believe in ourselves. I think that desire could lead us to do good or great things... as long as we can temper it with a little objectivity.