Have you ever wondered if your partner is a narcissist? If so, we’re here to help you figure it out by offering a list of 4 signs you’re in a relationship with a narcissist. While not all narcissists are built the same, there are some pretty obvious clues that most of them have which is exactly what we’re going to dive into.
Being in a relationship with a narcissist can be challenging and emotionally exhausting. Narcissists are often characterized by their excessive need for admiration, inflated sense of self-importance, and lack of empathy for others.
Signs You’re in a Relationship with a Narcissist
1. Everything Was Too Good to Be True at The Start
A common technique used by narcissists to win their prey over is something known as love bombing. Love bombing occurs when the narcissist is over the top at the very start of the relationship. This often presents as them saying, “I love you,” incredibly quickly, sending gifts frequently, and talking about a future with you way too early into the relationship. While you may find this behavior flattering, it’s important to keep in mind that love takes time to build. If someone is starting off heavy, it might be a sign they’re a narcissist who is trying to love-bomb you to win you over.
2. Gaslighting or Other Manipulation Tactics
Narcissists are the masters of manipulation. They lack empathy and have no trouble using deception and lying to get what they want out of a person. Unfortunately, people who are in a relationship with a narcissist usually get the worst of this toxic behavior. Narcissists often attempt to gaslight their victims. This means they manipulate their partners into making them question their own reality when it comes to life-changing decisions like making an investment (read more – REI BlackBook), buying a house (read more – Investopedia)or a car, or even less important things. If you find yourself starting to second-guess yourself or feel like you’re “going crazy” since being in a relationship, it might indicate that your partner is using manipulation tactics on you in order to get what they want.
3. Major Lack of Consistency
Have you ever heard someone say that actions speak louder than words? There’s some truth behind this statement, as words not followed through by action means someone is lacking consistency. They say one thing and do the next. Narcissists are pros when it comes to telling you what you want to hear without any real intention of acting on it. If you find that the person you’re in a relationship with is someone whom you can never count on or believe in, then it might be a sign you’re dealing with a narcissist.
4. They Never Take Accountability
Accountability is a foreign concept to narcissists. In their eyes, they can never do anything wrong and when anything negative happens in their life they blame it on someone else. This is one of the reasons that narcissistic relationships are so toxic, as there’s no opportunity for the relationship to grow without both partners accepting responsibility for their actions and words. If you notice that your partner refuses to own up to their behavior, then it might indicate you’re in a relationship with a narcissist.
Tips to help manage a relationship with a narcissist
1. Establish boundaries
Narcissists tend to invade personal space and ignore the needs of others. It is crucial to set clear boundaries for yourself and communicate your needs openly and assertively.
2. Manage your expectations
It’s important to understand that narcissists may not be capable of being genuinely empathetic or truly supportive partners. Avoid expecting them to make significant changes in their behavior.
3. Self-care
Prioritize your own mental and emotional health. Engage in activities that bring you joy, maintain a support network of friends and loved ones, and professional help if needed.
4. Look for patterns
Recognize the tell-tale signs of and remember that it is not a reflection of your worth. The narcissist’s actions are about their owncurities and need for validation, not about you.
5. Don’t fuel their ego
Avoid providing excessive praise or acknowledgment of the narcissist’s achievements. This can reinforce their inflated sense of self-importance.
6. Know when to walk away
If your relationship with a narcissist is causing you significant distress, it may be time to consider whether the relationship is healthy for you. Prioritize your own well-being and do not be afraid to leave the relationship if necessary.
Conclusion
Remember, it’s important to prioritize your own emotional well-being in any relationship, especially when dealing with a narcissist. It’s often helpful to seek guidance from a mental health professional to ensure that you’re making the best decisions for your emotional health.
