Dealing with a narcissist, whether it be an ex-partner or a colleague at work, can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience. They always seem to be in control or seeking validation, and their behavior often leaves victims feeling broken, manipulated, and taken for granted.
In this article, we will discuss ways to get back at a narcissist and the impact they have on their victims.
Ways to get back at a narcissist
Importance of being in the right headspace
Revenge is not always the best response to a narcissist’s behavior. It is crucial to collect your thoughts and have a calm head before engaging with them.
When you are in the right headspace, it is easier to devise strategies that won’t backfire or worsen things. You can take control of the situation and be more effective in your response.
Putting negative feelings aside
When dealing with a narcissist, it is easy to become emotional and feel like a hot mess. However, it is essential to put aside these negative feelings and engage in rational thinking.
Narcissists aim to control their victims by manipulating their emotions. Don’t let them.
Instead, try to stay clear headed and avoid getting caught up in their games. Exploiting the narcissist’s vulnerabilities
Narcissists have deep insecurities, imperfections and flaws that they don’t want anyone to see.
Use these to your advantage. Talk positively about their flaws, or simply ignore them.
The idea is not to hurt them but to show them that you see them for who they are, flaws and all, and that it doesn’t bother you. Reciprocating the narcissist’s behavior
When a narcissist gives you the cold shoulder, the best response may be to do the same.
Start ignoring them, and play around with their head. Narcissists crave attention, and when they realize they are no longer the one in charge, they try to come back and control the situation.
Resist the temptation to give in and instead, hold your ground.
Giving attention in bits and pieces
One of the ways to deal with a narcissist is by controlling the amount of attention you give them. Don’t be too needy or available to them.
Be independent and give attention in small quantities. This approach makes them more dependent on you for validation and approval.
Slightly humiliating the narcissist in public
Let’s say you are in a social setting and notice the narcissist is trying to get everyone’s attention. You can slightly humiliate them by not giving them any validation or playing along with their demands.
This tactic is not aimed at hurting the narcissist as much as it is about showing them that you are not inferior to them and that their behavior is unnecessary. Showing the narcissist you don’t need them
Narcissists love attention and validation, but they also want to feel needed.
By showing them that you don’t need them, you take away their control over the situation. Act independent and confident.
Stop making them the center of your world and focus on yourself. When they see that you can thrive without them, they lose their power over you.
The impact of narcissists on their victims
Narcissists inflict deep wounds
Dating a narcissist may lead to deep-seated wounds that are hard to heal. Narcissists are experts at manipulating and gaslighting their victims, causing them to question their reality.
Additionally, victims may end up feeling used, unappreciated, and taken advantage of.
It is hard to move on from dating a narcissist
The aftermath of a relationship with a narcissist can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Victims may suffer from anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Moving on may be difficult, but it is essential to focus on regaining your sanity and rebuilding your life.
Narcissists destroy their victims mentally and physically
Narcissists can cause immense destruction on their victims’ psyche. They can leave a gaping emotional hole that is challenging to fill.
Moreover, some victims may end up having physical ailments due to the stress that comes with the aftermath of being in a relationship with a narcissist.
Some victims struggle to forget what the narcissist did
For some victims, forgetting what the narcissist did is almost impossible. The emotional ordeal may continue to haunt them, even years after the relationship has ended.
They may struggle with trust issues in future relationships and find it hard to open up emotionally.
Narcissists know how to manipulate and control their victims
Narcissists are experts at knowing what to say and how to act to make their victims fall for them. They can be charming, charismatic, and manipulative, making it easy for victims to fall into their trap.
Moving on and focusing on the future
Although it can be a long and challenging journey, it is possible to move on from a relationship with a narcissist. Focus on what makes you happy, and work on regaining your confidence and sanity.
Start small and take baby steps when necessary. Remember, it’s not about the destination but the journey itself.
Final thoughts
Dealing with a narcissist can take a toll on your emotional and physical health. While it’s essential to take steps to protect yourself, it’s crucial to keep your own well-being in mind.
Remember to take care of yourself, and don’t let the narcissist control your life. In the end, what matters is your happiness, and you deserve to live a fulfilling and joyous life.
In conclusion, dealing with a narcissist can be a challenging experience that can leave long-lasting emotional and physical scars. However, it’s crucial to remember that you have the power to control the situation and protect yourself from further harm.
By implementing the strategies discussed in this article, you can get back at a narcissist without compromising your well-being and move on from the aftermath of a relationship with them. Most importantly, don’t forget to take care of yourself and prioritize your happiness.
Remember, you are strong and capable, and you deserve to live a fulfilling life free from the narcissistic behavior of others.