The Problem with New Age Spirituality and the Rise of Spiritual Narcissism

I wanted to raise awareness of this, as it is a trap I fell into early on in my journey. I went into spirituality with good intentions but the ego likes to have its say, it stamps its feet and says what about me. The two sides of ego; the “Protector”, trying to keep us safe by holding us back and the other side the “Supremo” the inflated view of one's importance and superiority over others. It's the latter that I mostly focus on here. I hope that me sharing this will help others from getting snared in ego's grip.

In recent years, New Age spirituality has seen a significant surge in popularity. It draws on diverse traditions and practices, often blending elements from Eastern philosophies, Western esotericism, and contemporary metaphysical thoughts. This eclectic approach aims to empower individuals, promoting self-discovery and personal growth. However, as with any movement, there are pitfalls. One of the less discussed but increasingly prevalent issues is the rise of what's been termed "spiritual narcissism."

Spiritual narcissism refers to the phenomenon where individuals use spirituality as a status symbol or a means to assert their superiority over others. This can manifest in various ways, from subtly using spiritual achievements to boost ego and self-importance to more overt expressions like proclaiming oneself as more enlightened or spiritually advanced than others.

The roots of spiritual narcissism can often be traced back to genuine intentions. Many embark on spiritual journeys seeking relief from suffering, enlightenment, or a deeper understanding of the universe. However, the very nature of New Age spirituality—with its emphasis on individualism and subjective truth—can inadvertently foster a focus on self-enhancement rather than self-transcendence.

Signs of spiritual narcissism include:

• Using spiritual jargon to dominate conversations and belittle the experiences or views of others.

• Overemphasis on one’s spiritual achievements or experiences as a means of establishing authority or superiority.

• Neglecting ethical practices while focusing solely on spiritual metaphysics or personal empowerment.

• Lack of empathy and genuine compassion, masked by a superficial display of understanding or tolerance.

The implications of spiritual narcissism are twofold—impacting both the individual and the wider spiritual community. For the individual, this narcissism can lead to a plateau in genuine spiritual development. Instead of achieving true enlightenment or self-awareness, the focus shifts to maintaining an image or persona of spirituality. This misalignment can lead to internal conflicts, as the outward display of spirituality becomes disjointed from actual personal growth.

For the community, spiritual narcissism can be divisive. It can create environments where one-upmanship takes precedence over mutual support and genuine spiritual exchange. This not only alienates members but can also discourage newcomers who perceive this competitive atmosphere as contrary to the fundamental principles of spiritual practice.

To counteract spiritual narcissism, it's crucial for both individuals and communities to foster a culture of humility, introspection, and inclusivity. Here are a few steps that can be taken:

• Emphasize ethical living and empathy as core components of spiritual practice, not just personal enlightenment.

• Encourage community support and accountability, where members can gently point out when spiritual discussions may be veering into narcissistic territory.

• Promote teachings that focus on the interconnectedness of all beings rather than just individual spiritual experiences.

• Provide resources for learning about healthy ego boundaries and the importance of balancing self-improvement with altruistic practices.

While New Age spirituality holds the potential for profound personal transformation, it is not immune to pitfalls such as spiritual narcissism. By recognizing and addressing these issues, the spiritual community can ensure that its path remains one that truly enhances the well-being of all its members, fostering an environment of real growth and meaningful enlightenment.