“You look great…for your age.” “That was smart… for once.” This is the art of disguised criticism. They’ll offer seemingly positive remarks laced with subtle digs, leaving you feeling confused and undermined. The goal is to keep you insecure and dependent on their validation.
Defense tactic: Recognize the veiled insult. Don’t let their disguised negativity chip away at your confidence. Respond with humor, deflect the compliment, or simply say, “Thank you, I appreciate it.” Don’t give them the power to define your worth.
- The Triangulation Trap:
This is where they pit you against others, creating competition and conflict. They’ll play favorites, whisper gossip, and sow seeds of discord, aiming to divide and conquer. Their ultimate goal is to isolate you and maintain control over your relationships.
Defense tactic: Don’t fall for their divide-and-conquer tactics. Refuse to participate in their drama. Speak directly to the involved parties, clarify any misunderstandings, and maintain your own healthy connections. Don’t let the narcissist be the puppet master of your relationships.
- The Stonewalling Strategy:
When confronted with their behavior, they’ll shut down, refuse to communicate, and play the victim. They’ll deflect, deny, and make you feel like you’re the one responsible for the conflict. This stonewalling is designed to avoid accountability and shut down any attempt at genuine dialogue.
Defense tactic: Don’t let them shut you down. Stay calm and assertive. Express your concerns clearly and directly. If they refuse to engage, don’t waste your energy
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