Spending extended time with a narcissist is emotionally draining. They prefer no one to see through their egocentric masks, and they work hard to prove they are superior or uniquely burdened, even though they have nothing substantial to offer. Only those closest to them can see their true nature, and even that takes time. Their closest friends and family are usually the first to notice the lies.
When you realize you’re dealing with a narcissist, a different approach is required. Continuing to interact with them will only lead to pain and disappointment. Loving a narcissist in the hope that they will change is pointless. Advocating tough love might work in some cases, but not with a narcissistic adult. Scolding or criticizing them only enrages them, worsening the situation, as narcissists cannot tolerate being told “no” or being reprimanded.
They’ll view you as the problem and quickly move on to their next victim. They may even damage your reputation in the process. This will only benefit them, not you. You need more than tough love to deal with a narcissist.
Looking back, it can be devastating to realize how much time you spent loving someone who didn’t reciprocate those feelings. When children are involved, the situation becomes even more complicated. But when everything finally makes sense, it’s time to act. Now is the time to devise a strategy to deal with or avoid the narcissist.
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