Narcissists have an extreme need for admiration and attention. They often use their partners as a way to boost their self-esteem and bolster their ego.
This can lead to a relationship where love is conditional and transactional rather than based on genuine connection and empathy. This can lead to a toxic relationship and may be a sign of narcissistic personality disorder.
A narcissist will always try to shift the blame onto you when they make mistakes, even if it’s something small. This is a major red flag.
You might notice that your partner is constantly making complaints about other people or how they’re treated. If they seem indifferent to others’ feelings or are rude, this is also a sign that you might be dating a narcissist.
1. You’ll feel like you’re the only one who matters
If you’re dating a narcissist, you’ll feel like you’re the only one who matters. They’ll do everything they can to show you how much they care about you, but it never goes far enough.
You’ll also feel like they have no empathy for you, and will treat you as a piece of furniture in their life.
They’ll do anything to make themselves seem bigger or better than anyone else, including blaming other people for their own flaws and problems.
This can make it difficult for you to maintain a healthy relationship. You’ll have to constantly remind yourself that this isn’t your fault, and you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.
2. You’ll be the center of attention
A narcissist’s biggest need is admiration. They’ll constantly soak up compliments and attention because it makes them feel alive.
They’ll seek and keep the spotlight when they can, including at work or in social settings. They may also one-up others in conversation, interrupt other people, or talk over them.
This can be very frustrating. However, it’s important to remember that you’re not responsible for their behavior. It’s better to leave a toxic relationship sooner rather than later.
3. You’ll be constantly criticized
Narcissists are hypersensitive to criticism and will often bristle in the face of feedback that doesn’t flatter them. They believe they’re superior to others and will take purposeful steps to ensure that their image remains perfect.
They will also tend to exaggerate and lie about their achievements. They may brag about their friendships with famous people or awards they’ve won.
They don’t have any real empathy and don’t take any notice of how their behavior affects others, unless it’s to get what they want. When that’s the case, they can be exploitative and manipulative.
4. You’ll be blamed for everything
When you date a narcissist, you’ll constantly be blamed for everything. They’ll be critical of your decisions, your career, your parenting skills, and every other aspect of your life.
These criticisms can trigger extreme anger and resentment, especially when you receive negative feedback. This is because narcissists believe that they are the most special person in the world and that others should always respect their opinion.
Narcissists also expect favorable treatment and adoration, so they’ll do anything to make themselves look better. They can even take advantage of other people’s personal space, time, possessions, and feelings.
5. You’ll feel lost
You’ll feel lost when dating a narcissist. They’ll have you second in line to get their approval, and they’ll constantly put their needs ahead of yours.
They’ll show up late, stand you up on dates, and take the longest to respond to emails or text messages. They’ll also give you the cold shoulder and never make plans to see other people.
Even if the relationship seems to be getting better, pay attention to how he treats others. If he’s easily condemning those he previously adored, it may be time to start looking for an exit strategy.