How To Spot A Co-Worker Who Has ‘Main Character Syndrome’

Main character syndrome is a term made popular on TikTok to describe a tendency among people to view themselves as the lead character in their own life story. People with main character syndrome tend to be self-centered and self-absorbed, making it difficult to work collaboratively with others. It’s often associated with negative traits, such as narcissism and entitlement.

These folks seek attention and validation from others, which can manifest in overly dramatic behavior or fishing for compliments. They have difficulty empathizing with others, as they view everyone else as supporting actors. It’s hard for them to take direction from others, as they feel they know best how to play the lead role in their lives. They clash with colleagues with different perspectives or goals, as they view their storylines as the most important.

Signs Of Main Character Syndrome

• Does this person always want to be the center of attention?
• Does your co-worker think they are smarter and more important than your boss and colleagues?
• Do they take credit for other people’s work?
• Do they constantly complain about not getting enough recognition and respect?
• Do they try to outshine your colleagues and make them look bad in front of management?
• Does this person act superior to the team and would instead work alone, as they feel everyone else is not on their level?

The Impact On The Workplace

Main character syndrome can have a negative impact on other workers in the office, which also hurts the company’s bottom line. It can create a toxic work environment, ripe with conflict and resentment stemming from this bad seed, making it difficult to collaborate.

If the person with main character syndrome is constantly rewarded, workers will have negative feelings toward management for perpetuating this bad behavior. All of this turmoil will serve as a distraction. Workers will become disengaged, which will dampen productivity levels. Some may adopt this same toxic behavior to stay competitive, which will poison the culture.

If the narcissist is always badmouthing their co-workers, boss and company, this could damage the firm’s reputation.

On the other hand, a person’s high level of self-confidence can be beneficial in the workplace. The employee with main character syndrome is more open to taking big risks and pursuing ambitious goals because they’re so confident that they can make it happen. Since they already view themselves as the protagonist, they could possess strong leadership skills and serve to inspire and motivate their peers.

What To Do

If this employee’s behavior is causing significant problems in the workplace, it may be necessary to have a conversation with them about their attitude. In some cases, they may be unaware of how their behavior affects others. If this person is willing to change their ways, it may be possible to resolve the issue without firing them.

How To Deal With A Person Who Has Main Character Syndrome

• Set clear boundaries. Let your co-worker know that you are uncomfortable with their behavior and expect them to treat you with respect.
• Be direct and assertive. Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and call out your co-worker’s behavior when it is inappropriate.
• Document the behavior. If the behavior is ongoing, keeping a record of the incidents is helpful. This will be helpful if you need to escalate the issue to your manager or human resources department.
• Seek support from others. If you feel overwhelmed or stressed by the situation, talk to your manager, HR department or a trusted co-worker. They may be able to offer you support and guidance.