People who suffer from narcissistic personality disorder have an idealized and loftier self-perception than they actually are. This comes as no surprise in the era of social media. Whether someone is suffering from NPD or has a history of severe narcissistic tendencies, it makes intimate partners feel emotionally drained and manipulative. Here are our best strategies for handling narcissists.
1. Pay attention to your own aspirations and requirements. Don’t let the other person’s illusions or arrogant style of living cause you to lose yourself. Concentrate on your life’s path, which could need you to give up some fantasies in order to feel more content.
2. Define boundaries that are easily understood. Some narcissists believe they have the right to snoop through your belongings, do as they please, or claim credit for your efforts. Don’t be too lenient, and talk about the consequences if limits are crossed.
3. Speak up instead of being quiet! Picking your battles might not be appropriate in this situation; instead, explain why their behavior is unacceptable in a calm, non-confrontational tone.
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4. Keep in mind that you are not to blame! Even if narcissists have a propensity to blame others for their bad behavior, resist the urge to do so in order to stroke their ego. Recognize the truth and cling to it.
5. Discuss the possibility of seeking professional assistance with them. A therapist might be able to assist in easing some of that emotional burden so they can improve as a relationship. But you can’t make anyone change.
6. Remind yourself constantly that you are endearing, special, and intelligent. You may keep your self-esteem up even when your partner is acting narcissistically by using mantras or positive self-talk.
7. Recognize that if you don’t accept them now, you might never be able to. No matter how much work you put into it, narcissists frequently find it challenging to develop a connection that is genuinely deep and loving.
8. Try to teach ideals of empathy in children by utilizing examples from real-life situations to illustrate how the lives of others around them can help people focus on others instead of on themselves. Eliminating the “I” narrative can be quite beneficial.
9. Ensure you have a solid support system, and if necessary, seek out therapy to remind yourself that you’re not alone. Being around by people who love and support you can help you make decisions more clearly.
10. If there are indications of ranting, humiliation in front of others, or name-calling, leave the situation and retreat. While remaining in an abusive or manipulative relationship can be traumatizing, so can breaking up with someone. We hope you at least sow the idea of considering this as a possibility if making that significant shift is too much for you.