Peoplewith narcissistic personality disorder have this image of themselvesthat is more grandiose and idealized than they actually are. In theage of social media, this is no surprise. Whether someone is sufficerfrom NPD or as strong narcissistic trails, it causes romanticpartners to feel manipulated, patronized, and emotionally exhausted.Here are our top ways to deal with a narcissist.
1.Focus on your own dreams and emotional needs. Don’t lose yourselfin the other person’s delusions and self-possessed way in life.Focus on your life trajectory, which may include the fantasies youneed to give up in order to feel more fulfilled.
2.Set boundaries that are clearly recognizable. Some narcissistsfeel entitled to go through your things, do whatever they want, ortake credit for your work. Discuss consequences if boundaries arecrossed, and don’t be too lenient.
3.Don’t be passive – speak up! Picking your battles might not beapplicable here – instead, always communicate clearly, but using acalm and non-confrontational tone, explaining why their behaviorisn’t acceptable.
4.Remember that it is not your fault! Even though narcissistshave a tendency to project negative behaviors onto other people,don’t fall for it and accept the blame just to soothe their ego.Know the truth and hold onto it.
5.Talk to them about potentially getting professional help. A therapistmight help take some of the weight off that emotional baggage so thatthey can be a better partner. However, you can’t force someone tochange.
6.Remind yourself on a daily basis that you are lovable, unique, andsmart. Positive self talk or mantras can help you maintain selfesteem in moments when your partner is lashing out with narcissisticbehavior.
7.Understand that you if you don’t accept them as they are now, youmay never accept them. Narcissistsoften find it hard to form a truly close and loving relationship thatgrows, no matter how much effort you put in.
8.Try to instill values of empathy in them by giving real life examplesusing the lives of people around them, helping them focus outwardly,as opposed Ito in a self obsessed manner. Getting away from the “I”narrative can help a lot.
9.Make sure that you have a strong support system, and possibly even atherapist if it helps you remember that you’re not alone. Beingsurrounded by loved ones appreciate you can help guide the way moreclearly, in whatever decision you make.
10. Exit the situation and retreat if there are signs of yelling, public humiliation, or name calling. Breaking up with someone is traumatic, but so is staying in an abusive or manipulative relationship. If that big move is too much for you, we hope that you at least plant the seed of seeing this as a possibility.
