Going on a first date can be exciting, but it’s important to keep your eyes open for potential warning signs. One type of person you may want to watch out for is a narcissist. Here are 10 warning signs to look for on a first date that may indicate you’re dealing with a narcissist.

1. Self-absorption

One of the biggest warning signs of narcissism is excessive self-absorption. If the person you’re dating spends the entire time talking about themselves and shows little interest in getting to know you, it could be a sign of narcissistic behavior.

They may also constantly seek validation and attention from you, making the conversation very one-sided. Pay attention to how much they focus on themselves compared to how much they engage with you.

Additionally, narcissists often have an inflated sense of their own importance and abilities, which can make them seem arrogant or boastful.

2. Lack of Empathy

Narcissists often lack empathy for others, which can be a major warning sign to look out for on a first date. If your date shows little interest in your feelings or struggles to see things from your perspective, this could indicate a lack of empathy.

They may also dismiss your feelings or experiences, making you feel unheard or invalidated. Pay attention to how they respond to your stories or struggles — the narcissist may try to outdo you or minimize your experiences.

Additionally, pay attention to how they treat others around you, such as servers or strangers. A lack of empathy for others is a common trait among narcissists.

3. Constant Need for Admiration

Narcissists crave admiration and validation from others, often seeking this through grand gestures or self-promotion. On a first date, you may notice your date constantly talking about their accomplishments or expecting praise for even small things.

They may seek out compliments or brag about their possessions to impress you. This constant need for admiration can be exhausting and may indicate narcissistic tendencies.

Watch for signs that the person you’re dating seeks your approval at every turn, as this could be a red flag for narcissism.

4. Manipulative Behavior

Narcissists are known for their manipulative tendencies, using charm and charisma to get what they want. On a first date, watch for any signs of manipulation, such as emotional manipulation or guilt tripping.

They may try to control the conversation or steer it toward topics that benefit them, ignoring your boundaries or feelings in the process. Be wary of any attempts to manipulate your emotions or decisions during the date.

Related : 10 Signs of Malignant Narcissism You Need to Watch Out For

If you sense that the person you’re dating is using manipulative tactics to gain the upper hand or make you feel grateful, this could be a warning sign of narcissism.

5. Not Respecting Boundaries

Narcissists often have a hard time respecting other people’s boundaries, preferring to prioritize their own needs and desires. On a first date, pay attention to how the person you’re dating responds to your boundaries and personal space.

The person you’re dating may pressure you to push your boundaries or pressure you to do things you’re uncomfortable with, and show no concern for your feelings or independence. Watch out for signs that the person you’re dating is ignoring your boundaries or trying to manipulate you into giving them up.

If you feel like the person you’re dating doesn’t respect your boundaries or crosses them without permission, it could be a warning sign of narcissistic behavior.

6. Feeling Entitled

Narcissists often feel entitled, believing they deserve special treatment or privileges without having to work for them. On a first date, you may notice signs of entitlement in how the person you’re dating interacts with you and others.

They may expect you to meet their every need or demand special treatment, while showing no concern for your needs or feelings. Watch for any signs that the person you’re dating feels entitled to your time, attention, or resources.

If the person you’re dating acts as if they’re superior to others and deserves preferential treatment, it could be a sign of narcissistic behavior.

7. Manipulation

Manipulation is a manipulative tactic that narcissists use to make their victims question their perceptions and reality. On a first date, watch out for any signs of manipulation, such as inconsistencies in what the person you’re dating says or invalidating your experiences.

They may distort the truth or deny what happened, making you question your memory or judgment. Manipulation can be subtle, so pay attention to how your date responds to your questions or concerns.

If you feel like your date is trying to manipulate your perception of reality or make you doubt yourself, it could be a red flag for narcissistic behavior.

8. Lack of Accountability

Narcissists often struggle to take responsibility for their actions or admit when they’re wrong, preferring to blame others. On a first date, watch for signs that your date is avoiding accountability or making excuses for their behavior.

They may blame you or others, refusing to acknowledge their role in any conflicts or mistakes. Pay attention to how your date responds to criticism or feedback — a lack of accountability can be a major warning sign.

If your date seems unwilling to take responsibility for their actions or exhibits a pattern of blaming others, it could indicate narcissistic tendencies.

9. Need for Control

Narcissists often have a strong need for control in their relationships, seeking to dominate and manipulate their partners to achieve their own desires. On a first date, pay attention to how your date tries to assert control or influence over you.

They may try to dictate the conversation, make decisions for you, or pressure you to do things their way. Watch out for signs that your date is trying to control the narrative or dictate the terms of your interactions.

If you sense that your date is trying to manipulate or control you, it could be a red flag for narcissistic behavior.

10. Mood Swings

Narcissists can experience unpredictable mood swings, going from charming and charismatic to cold and distant in an instant. On a first date, watch for any signs of mood swings or volatility in your date’s behavior.

Related :; 8 Weird Phone Calling Habits of a Narcissist

They may go from being overly emotional to distant and uninterested without warning, leaving you feeling confused or unsettled. ‍Beware of sudden changes in your partner’s mood or behavior during a date.

If your partner’s behavior seems erratic or unstable, this could be a warning sign of narcissistic behavior.

Conclusion

Recognizing a narcissist early can save you from potential emotional pain and manipulation in the future. By watching for these 10 warning signs on a first date, you can better protect yourself and make informed decisions about who you choose to date.

Remember to trust your instincts and set boundaries to ensure you enter into healthy, respectful relationships. Don’t ignore the warning signs—your emotional health deserves to be your top priority.