Do you know someone who seems to think the world revolves around them? Someone who’s always in a good mood and seems to take everything in stride? If so, you may be acquainted with a narcissist. Narcissism is a personality disorder characterized by excessive self-love and admiration.
More broadly, it can refer to any type of egocentrism—the belief that one’s own interests and needs are the only ones that matter. Now, while everyone has their own way of coping with the ups and downs of life, people with narcissism take it to an unhealthy level. They tend to see everything through a lens of Narcissistic Supply: whether it’s positive attention or material things.
And as we all know, when someone is constantly seeking validation from others, it can be incredibly damaging. So if you know someone who suffers from narcissistic tendencies, what can you do? Well, first and foremost, you need to be honest with them. Let them know how you feel about their behavior and why it’s harming both of your relationships. And if that doesn’t work, consider taking action yourself.
What is a Narcissist?
A narcissist is someone who has an unhealthy preoccupation with themselves and their own achievements. They often have a lack of empathy for others, and can be extremely self-centered. A narcissist can be very charming, but this only masks their true personality.
Signs your BFF may be a Narcissist
There are many signs that your BFF may be a narcissist.
These include:
1) Exhibiting qualities like always being the center of attention, needing constant admiration, and having a lack of empathy for others.
2) Being preoccupied with their own self-image and achievements to the exclusion of all else.
3) Expecting total loyalty and compliance from friends and acquaintances.
4) Exhibiting manipulative behaviors like playing people against each other, using threats or intimidation, or withholding information.
5) Seeing relationships as nothing more than opportunities to take advantage of someone or manipulate them into doing what they want.
How to Deal with a Narcissist
If you’re wondering if your best friend or partner is a narcissist, the answer may be yes. Narcissism is defined as a personality disorder characterized by a deep need for admiration and a lack of empathy for others. While not all narcissists are destructive, they can be very difficult to live with.
Here are tips to help deal with a narcissistic friend or partner:
1. Set boundaries. If you feel like you can’t handle them or their antics, set boundaries. This may mean declining invitations to do things, retreating alone time, or simply stating that you need space. Be honest with them about what you need and why it’s necessary.
2. Don’t react emotionally. It’s tough when your friends change in ways that make you uncomfortable, but try to stay calm and rational. This will help them understand that you aren’t going to just roll over and take it anymore – which may lead to positive change on their part.
3. Keep healthy relationships in mind. If your goal is to stay friends with someone who is a narcissist, make sure that your other relationships are healthy too – this includes both emotional and physical ones! In order to maintain healthy relationships with both narcissists and people without narcissistic traits, it’s important to practice mindfulness and have good self-esteem habits (like avoiding comparisons).
Tips for Surviving a Relationship with a Narcissist
If you find yourself in a relationship with a narcissist, here are five tips for surviving:
1. Don’t be fooled by their charm. A narcissist is often very charismatic and skilled at manipulation. They may seem like the perfect partner at first, but be mindful of how they treat you over time. If something feels too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Don’t fall into their trap. Narcissists prey on people who are vulnerable or who feel insecure. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or trapped, DO NOT let them get to you! Stand your ground and refuse to be controlled or manipulated by them.
3. Keep your own boundaries. It’s important to set boundaries with a narcissist in order to retain your own self-respect and sanity. Be sure to communicate with them about what you will and will not tolerate – this will help keep both of your interests in mind while in the relationship.
4. Stay alert for signs of abuse/neglect/verbal/physical violence. If anything feels off, don’t ignore it – talk to someone about it! Remember, if there is any kind of violence or abuse happening in your relationship, it is not YOUR fault – it is the narcissist’s fault! You can get help if necessary!
5. Finally… keep yourself healthy both mentally and physically! Too often when people are dealing with a narcissistic partner, they neglect themselves emotionally and physically.
