Most People Are Narcissists… Count the Squares

Have you ever been asked to count squares in a picture and found yourself frustrated because the answer isn’t as obvious as it seems? What if I told you that how quickly (or slowly) you solve it could reveal something surprising about human nature?

This isn’t just a brain teaser—it’s a mirror. Many people are so confident in their first answer that they rarely stop to question it. Psychologists suggest that this overconfidence can hint at narcissistic traits: an inflated sense of certainty in one’s own judgment, and a tendency to assume one is right without seeking alternative perspectives.

The Challenge

Here’s how it works: you’re presented with a geometric puzzle, usually a simple grid with overlapping squares. Your task is to count all the individual squares—big ones, small ones, and everything in between.

At first glance, you might see just a handful. But the trick is that squares can be hidden inside others, creating layers of complexity. Most people glance, give a quick answer, and move on. Only a few take the time to break the puzzle down carefully, methodically counting each possibility.

What It Says About You

If you immediately gave an answer without checking carefully, you’re in good company—but here’s the twist: that tendency may reflect a subtle narcissistic streak. Not the extreme, unhealthy kind, but a natural human bias toward self-assurance and quick judgment.

On the other hand, if you counted meticulously and double-checked your work, you might be more patient, detail-oriented, and open to complexity. This doesn’t make you “better” than others—it just shows a different cognitive style.

Why We Overlook Squares

Humans are wired for shortcuts. We often assume that what we see first is all there is, ignoring hidden patterns or layers. Our brains love efficiency, but sometimes this comes at the cost of accuracy.

Interestingly, studies show that puzzles like this can reveal more than just attention to detail. They can highlight personality traits such as confidence, openness to experience, and even susceptibility to cognitive biases.

Try It Yourself

Next time you see a puzzle asking you to count squares, take a moment. Don’t rush. Break it down step by step. You might be surprised by how many you missed on your first glance—and by what that says about how you think.

After all, sometimes the real square isn’t the one on the page—it’s the reflection it casts on your mind.