A narcissist might also try to catch you off guard, coming up to you and yelling when you least expect it. Take a second to take a deep breath in before responding.
“I’m not quite sure that’s the way it happened. ” “I think we understood that message a little differently. ” “I don’t remember it quite like that. ”
This works really well if the narcissist is texting or calling you to blame you about something. You can simply hang up the phone or leave them on read to avoid a confrontation.
“It’s tough when you show up late for work. That must have been irritating to deal with. ” “You must have been disappointed when you realized the store was closed. I understand why you’re angry. ” It’s important to acknowledge your own part in what is happening and do your best to really try to see what might be happening inside the other person. [6] X Expert Source Casey LeeLicensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Expert Interview. 20 June 2022. You always need to be assertive and keep your own sense of self. Try to express how they are impacting you and the feelings that come up for you and what it makes you want to do in response. [7] X Expert Source Casey LeeLicensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Expert Interview. 20 June 2022.
“I’ll help you look for your keys. I’m sure they’re around here somewhere. ” “Do you want me to call your doctor and reschedule for next week?”
“I think we got off track somehow. Can we start over? Fighting like this isn’t good for us. ” “I’m sorry that we misunderstood each other. Let’s be better about communicating next time. ”
“I don’t appreciate the way that you yelled at me today. Next time, you need to bring things up in a calm way, or we won’t be having a conversation. ” “It’s fine to disagree with me, but you can’t call me names. If you disrespect me again, I’m leaving. ”
“You know so much about finances. Could you give me some advice on my portfolio?” “I was thinking about buying a new car. Is Toyota a good brand?”
Try repeating a mantra to yourself, like, “I am brave, I am strong, I am kind. ”
If your partner is a narcissist, try to urge them to go to therapy and get professional help. It’s the only way that your relationship will survive or thrive going forward.
