Monday, July 7, 2025

Dealing with narcissist

 “Give ‘em an inch, and they’ll take a mile” is an expression almost perfectly suited to narcissists. So while it may at times be tempting to capitulate to their requests or demands (if only to get them off your back), don’t violate your ethical code simply to maintain a harmonious relationship with them

The way to “win” with narcissists is not to out-and-out triumph over them but to assertively preserve your integrity in dealing with them. Otherwise, in avoiding the so challenging task of standing up to them, you’ll just be defeating yourself.

Don’t permit narcissists to push your buttons. Again, this is no easy undertaking, for entitled individuals can easily try your patience and burrow deep beneath your skin (although, admittedly, their skin is likely a lot thinner than yours).

Don't Engage: Avoid arguing or trying to reason with the narcissist during a tantrum, as this can be futile. 

Practice Detachment: Try to view the tantrum as a performance and avoid taking it personally. 

Consider Time Limits: If the situation becomes overwhelming, try to set a time limit for the interaction or disengage entirely. 

Focus on Your Safety: If the tantrum becomes threatening, prioritize your physical safety and remove yourself from the situation if necessary. 

Possible benefits of having a narcissistic parent include:

Better awareness of personality disorders: Navigating life with a narcissistic parent will serve as education in the world of mental health and personality disorders. Your experience can help you identify and manage issues in your platonic, romantic, and professional relationships.

Ability to distinguish words from action: A narcissistic parent may promise to do one thing but do another. The incongruence can be jarring to a child, but understanding this inconsistency can encourage you to seek out stable and reliable people.

Increased thoughtfulness: Narcissistic and selfish parents want you to share their wants and values. When you shed this burden, you can spend more time thinking about what you truly want from life.

Improved sense of self: In a similar fashion, narcissistic parents may think they know you better than you know yourself. Without their influence, you can identify who you are.

Independence: Narcissism stems from a need for control. Once you find freedom from your parents, you will never submit to a similar situation again. The autonomy you discover will be compelling and rewarding.

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