At first glance, this simple cookie-like image seems harmless — just a grid carved into dough. But the question above it, “The number of squares you see determines if you’re a narcissist,” makes everyone pause. It’s a fun psychological illusion that has gone viral online, sparking thousands of debates. Let’s explore what this puzzle really says about how you think, how observant you are, and yes — whether you might have a few narcissistic tendencies hiding beneath that calm exterior.
Step One: Count the Squares
Take another look.
You’ll probably see nine small squares at first. But if you focus longer, you’ll start noticing larger ones: the four formed by combining smaller sections, and finally, the single big square that holds them all. In total, there are 14 squares — if you counted them all, congratulations, you have sharp pattern recognition and strong attention to structure.
But according to playful online “pop psychology,” how many you notice right away can reveal something about you:
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