Number 2: They Make You Fear the Idea of Starting Over.
When you’re in a relationship with a narcissist, fear often becomes the biggest weapon they use against you. They capitalize on your fear of being alone, managing life on your own, starting over, or even the fear of being wrong about your decision to leave, just to keep you in a toxic relationship with them. They’ll make you ask questions like, “What if they really do change if I stay? What if I’m making a mistake by planning to leave? What will happen in six months if I wait things out?”
Such questions can overwhelm your thoughts, causing you to second-guess your decision to leave. If you’re thinking about leaving, those fears don’t just disappear in an instant. They pile up with feelings of self-doubt, shame, and the worry that you’re making the wrong choice. You might even feel foolish, like you’re about to ruin everything. It doesn’t help when enablers or the narcissist themselves add to the doubt with comments like, “Are you sure you know what you’re doing?” This just makes an already tough decision feel even harder.
Narcissistic abuse can really tear down your sense of self, leaving you feeling inadequate and filled with self-doubt. Their victims often end up questioning their own worth, thinking, “Who else would want me?” Narcissists know this and use it to their advantage, which is why they keep saying things like, “Who else will have you?” to instill fear about the idea of escaping them.
If a Narcissist Realises You’re Smarter, This is What They’ll Do
Even after you leave, the challenge isn’t over. Narcissists almost never let go easily because they thrive on manipulation and the thrill of the chase. For instance, if you manage to escape, they’ll often try to pull you back in by preying on your fears and insecurities to regain control. They’ll make you feel that you need them; otherwise, you won’t survive in this cruel world. Of course, that’s not true.
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