What Narcissists Don’t Realize When They Try to Destroy an Empath

The empath, inherently predisposed to recognize the positives in others and eager to maintain harmonious relationships, may start to internalize the disparaging remarks of the narcissist. They might convince themselves that they are the issue, believing they aren’t doing enough to satisfy the narcissist or that they are somehow inadequate or undeserving. Here lies the core of the harm; narcissists thrive on power, and once they have chipped away at the empath’s self-worth, they can tighten their grip even further.

The once confident and self-assured empath may find themselves relying on the narcissist for affirmation. They become ensnared in a relentless loop of attempting to regain the narcissist’s approval, even as the narcissist continually shifts the expectations, making it impossible for the empath to ever attain genuine satisfaction. This creates a harrowing emotional cycle, and for many empaths, it can feel as if they are gradually losing their identity along the way.

However, this is where the narrative takes an intriguing turn. Despite their adeptness in manipulation, narcissists frequently overlook the inherent strength found in empaths. Though empaths are often sensitive and caring, they also possess a profound intuition and remarkable resilience. Initially, they may not recognize the narcissist’s ploy, but over time, a growing awareness begins to dawn. Their instincts activate, allowing them to see beyond the narcissist’s deceptive exterior. This marks a pivotal moment in the relationship—the awakening—when the empath begins to discern the reality of their situation.

Upon realizing they are being exploited and controlled, an empath may experience immense pain and confusion. Feelings of betrayal and devastation arise, especially when they understand that someone they deeply cared for has been deliberately inflicting harm. Yet, this moment of clarity is also immensely empowering. Once the empath perceives the narcissist’s true nature, they embark on a journey to reclaim their agency. They start establishing firm boundaries, prioritize their own mental and emotional health, and withdraw from the toxic grasp of the narcissist.

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