We are so afraid of being perceived as prideful that it limits our full self-expression—and sometimes any self-expression at all. Malkin works with his patients to get them to the middle point between echoism and narcissism in a zone called “healthy narcissism.” Feeling pride is an essential and important component of healthy self-esteem: It suggests that you recognize your gifts, your specialness, your uniqueness, and that you feel empowered to use your talents in the world.
