They say, “Love is blind,” and yes, it can often cloud our judgment.
Especially when dealing with a classic narcissist.
Why? Because narcissists are masters of manipulation. They can be charming, charismatic, and seemingly perfect partners—until they’re not.
Let’s get straight into it. Here are 7 warning signs that might suggest you’re dating a textbook narcissist. Recognizing these signs may be your first step toward a healthier relationship.
1) They are always the center of attention
Have you ever noticed that your partner always seems to direct the conversation to themselves?
Whether it’s about their achievements, problems, or just random thoughts – everything revolves around them.
It is as if they are in a constant quest for attention and admiration. And this is not just with you. They act this way with everyone – friends, family, and even strangers.
We all love to share our stories and be heard. But with narcissists it is different. It’s not about sharing. It’s about controlling the narrative.
2) Lack of empathy
This was a difficult thing for me to realize in my own relationship. I remember there were times when I was going through a difficult period and needed emotional support. But instead of being there for me, my partner would ignore it or worse, do it about them.
One specific example that stands out is when I lost my job. I was feeling frustrated and insecure about my career. But instead of sympathy, all I got was a lecture about how they once lost a job and were able to quickly come back.
Their lack of empathy was striking. They seemed unable to understand or share my feelings. It was always about their experiences and feelings.
In hindsight, this was a clear sign of narcissism. If your significant other consistently lacks empathy, it may be time to take a hard look at your relationship. Empathy is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Without it, things can quickly become toxic.
3) They never accept blame
Let’s talk about accountability. Or rather, its lack thereof.
A few years ago, I was in a relationship where it seemed like I was always to blame. Whenever something went wrong, my partner would find a way to pin it on me, even when it had nothing to do with me.
I remember this time when they missed an important meeting due to oversleeping. Instead of taking responsibility for their actions, they blamed me for not waking them up on time. It was confusing and frustrating.
This constant refusal to accept blame is a common trait among narcissists. They will twist and turn events to make themselves appear flawless.
Consider this a red flag. A healthy relationship involves two people who can admit their mistakes and work together to fix them.
4) They underestimate your accomplishments
Do you remember that time when you achieved something amazing, and all you wanted was to share the joy with your partner? But instead of celebrating with you, they downplay your success or try to outdo you with their own accomplishments.
I’ve been there too. I remember when I got a promotion at work, an accomplishment I had been working toward for years. Instead of being happy for me, my partner immediately turned the conversation to his own career advancement.
Narcissists find it difficult to celebrate the successes of others. They feel threatened, especially if it diverts attention away from them.
Take note. You deserve to be with someone who celebrates your victories, not someone who belittles them.
5) They highlight you
This is a big one. Mind manipulation. It is a manipulative tactic that narcissists often use to gain power and control in a relationship.
It works by making you doubt your thoughts, memories, and perceptions. The term actually comes from a 1944 film called “Gaslight,” in which a man manipulates his wife into thinking she is losing her mind.
In my previous relationship, I experienced this firsthand. My partner would dismiss my feelings, call me “too sensitive,” or completely deny what happened. It left me constantly thinking about myself and questioning my sanity.
Trust your instincts and know that your feelings are valid.
6) They are overly charming
This may seem strange. After all, magic is generally considered a good quality, right? But hear me out.
A few years ago, I was in a relationship with someone who was incredibly charming. At first, I felt like I had hit the jackpot. They were charismatic and persuasive and could make anyone feel like the most important person in the room.
But over time, I started to notice a pattern. Magic was used as a tool for manipulation. It turned on and off depending on what they wanted or who they were trying to impress.
This excessive charm is a characteristic of narcissists. They use it to attract and deceive others.
So, be careful. If your partner’s charm seems too good to be true, it probably is. Real people are always kind and respectful, not just when it suits their agenda.
7) They have a sense of entitlement
Narcissists often believe that they are superior to others and deserve special treatment. This inflated sense of self-importance is the hallmark of narcissism.
They believed they were entitled to the best of everything. Whether it’s always having the last word or expecting constant praise, their sense of entitlement knows no bounds.
This feeling of entitlement can be harmful in a relationship. It creates an imbalance, where one person’s needs and desires are prioritized over the other’s.
Ready meals
Knowledge is power. If you find yourself recognizing these signs, you’ve already taken the first step toward improving your situation.
Change is not easy, especially when it comes to relationships. It’s a process that requires patience, self-compassion, and, often, professional help. There is no shame in seeking treatment or counseling to navigate these choppy waters.
The goal is not to condemn or discredit narcissists, but rather to better understand their behavior patterns. This understanding allows you to make informed decisions about the future of your relationship.
Your feelings are valid. Your experiences are valid. Most importantly, you deserve love and respect in all its forms, especially from those close to you.
Take time to think about your relationship after reading this. Think about your next steps carefully. And remember, prioritizing your mental and emotional health is never a selfish act, it is an act of self-love.
