A narcissist is someone who displays a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. They often have an inflated sense of self-importance, require excessive attention and admiration, and exploit others for their own gain. Additionally, they tend to have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships due to their self-centeredness and disregarding others’ feelings and needs.
Dating a narcissist can be emotionally draining and harmful to your well-being. Here are some signs that you might be dating a narcissist:
- Excessive self-importance: Narcissists often have an inflated sense of self-importance. They may constantly talk about their achievements, talents, or possessions and expect others to admire and praise them excessively.
- Lack of empathy: Narcissists often have difficulty empathising with others. They may seem indifferent or insensitive to your feelings and needs and dismiss your concerns without consideration.
- Manipulative behaviour: Narcissists are skilled manipulators. They may use manipulation tactics such as gaslighting (making you doubt your perceptions or sanity), guilt-tripping, or love-bombing (excessively praising and showering you with attention at the beginning of the relationship) to control you.
- Sense of entitlement: Narcissists often believe that they are entitled to special treatment and privileges. They may expect you to cater to their needs and desires without considering your own, and they may become angry or resentful if they don’t get their way.
- Grandiosity: Narcissists often have grandiose fantasies about their success, power, or attractiveness. They may exaggerate their achievements or talents and become arrogant or condescending towards others they perceive as inferior.
- Lack of accountability: Narcissists typically have difficulty taking responsibility for their actions. They may blame others for their mistakes or shortcomings and become defensive or hostile when confronted with criticism or feedback.
- Jealousy and possessiveness: Narcissists may be excessively jealous or possessive in relationships. They may view your interactions with others as threats to their ego or control and try to isolate you from friends and family members.
- Emotional volatility: Narcissists can have unpredictable mood swings. They may alternate between idealising and devaluing you and react with anger or rage if they feel criticised or rejected.
- Boundary violations: Narcissists often have poor boundaries and may disregard your boundaries as well. They may invade your privacy, manipulate your emotions, or pressure you into doing things you’re not comfortable with.
- Shallow relationships: Narcissists tend to have shallow, superficial relationships. They may struggle to form deep emotional connections or maintain long-term commitments as they prioritise their needs and desires above all else.
It’s important to remember that everyone has narcissistic traits to some extent. Still, a true narcissist displays a pattern of pervasive and damaging behaviours that negatively impact their relationships and the people around them. If you suspect you’re in a relationship with a narcissist, it’s essential to prioritise your well-being and consider seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist.
