So many of us are in relationships with a narcissist and don’t even know it. I was for a long time and discovered that my mother was a narcissist too. I had no idea.
Being in a relationship with a narcissist is exhausting, stressful, frustrating and so damaging to your mental health. If you recognize these signs of narcissism in your partner, it may be time to pack your stuff and leave.
Here are the nine secret signs of narcissism that you can’t miss once you notice them.
9 signs of narcissism you can’t ignore
Befoer we begin on the signs of narcissism, I think you might also like these articles:
And here’s an article I think you might like about the true definition of a narcissist. This article discusses narcissistic personality disorder much more in depth.
So, let’s get to the signs of narcissism now.
Constant Need for Attention
One of the most obvious signs of narcissism is a constant need for attention and validation. This can be constantly seeking compliments, exaggerating achievements, or needing to be the center of attention in social situations.
If someone you know always seems to crave attention and becomes upset when they don’t receive it, this could be a sign of narcissism.
Arrogance and Domineering Attitude
Narcissists often exude an air of arrogance, always appearing confident and domineering. They show an exaggerated belief in their abilities and skills, often belittling others to amplify their own status.
If you notice someone consistently behaving arrogantly and demonstrating a domineering attitude, it could definitely be a sign of narcissism.
Grandiose Sense of Self-Importance
Narcissists often have an inflated sense of self-importance. They may believe that they are superior to others and deserve special treatment or recognition.
This can show up like them expecting constant praise, feeling entitled to privileges, or belittling those they view as inferior. To me, this is a clear sign of narcissism.
Difficulty Handling Criticism
People with narcissistic personality disorder have a fragile sense of self-esteem and are highly sensitive to criticism. They may react with anger, defensiveness, or even aggression when faced with any form of criticism or feedback.
This is because they struggle to accept that they may not be perfect or special in every way. If someone becomes extremely defensive or hostile when receiving criticism, that’s a narcissistic red flag.
Lack of Boundaries
Narcissists often have a hard time respecting other people’s boundaries. They may feel entitled to invade someone’s personal space, ignore their requests for privacy, or use their possessions without permission.
If your person consistently crosses your personal boundaries without remorse, it could be a sign of narcissism.
Need for Control
Narcissists often have a strong need for control in all aspects of their lives and their partner’s life. They may feel the need to micromanage you or others, make all the decisions, or be in charge of every situation.
If someone is constantly trying to control everything around them, they not only have control issues, but it’s also one of the signs of narcissism.
Lack of Empathy
One of the most well-known traits of narcissism is a lack of empathy. Narcissists struggle to understand or care about other people’s feelings and experiences. They may dismiss others’ emotions as unimportant or even use them to their advantage.
This lack of empathy can make it difficult for narcissists to maintain healthy relationships, as they often prioritize their own needs above others. If someone consistently shows a lack of empathy, it could be a red flag for narcissistic personality disorder.
Exploitative Behavior
Narcissists use others to reach their goals, often at the expense of the other person’s well-being or dignity. This manipulation is a clear sign of their disregard for others’ feelings and needs.
They view people as tools for personal gain, failing to recognize the rights, needs, and feelings of those around them. In their world, everyone is merely a pawn in the game of bolstering their self-esteem and achieving their goals.
Lack of Self-Awareness
Despite their seemingly high self-esteem, narcissists often struggle with self-awareness. They may have difficulty recognizing their flaws and weaknesses and become defensive or hostile if anyone tries to point them out.
This lack of self-awareness can also make it difficult for narcissists to see the impact of their behavior on others. If someone seems unaware of their faults and unwilling to address them, it could be a sign of narcissism.
final thoughts on signs of narcissism
Narcissism is a complex personality trait; while some may exhibit all of these signs, others may only display a few. It’s important to remember that having some narcissistic tendencies does not necessarily mean someone has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). However, recognizing these signs can help you identify toxic behaviors in yourself or others and work towards healthier relationships.
If you believe someone you know may struggle with narcissism, seeking professional help can provide valuable insight and support. Remember, self-awareness and a willingness to change are key to overcoming narcissistic tendencies.
