Strategies for Dealing with a Narcissistic Ex

Breakups can be difficult and complex, especially when your ex is a narcissist. The natural inclination may be to try to reason with them or try to get through to them, but unfortunately this will almost always end in disappointment. So how can you handle the situation? How can you protect yourself from a narcissistic ex? Let’s dive in.

1. Maintain Your Boundaries

The most important thing when dealing with a narcissist is to maintain your boundaries and stick to them, no matter what they say or do.

Keep in mind that they will likely try to manipulate you into breaking your boundaries by making threats or trying to guilt-trip you into doing something that goes against what you want.

Don’t fall for it! Remind yourself that their words and actions don’t define who you are and that your boundaries are there for your own protection.

2. Don’t Engage With Their Drama

It’s also important to remember that narcissists thrive off drama, so it’s best not to engage with them when they start stirring up trouble.

If they’re trying to pick a fight or start an argument, don’t take the bait — just walk away and focus on something else until the storm passes. It might seem hard at first, but eventually it will become second nature as long as you stay consistent in not engaging with their drama.

3. Talk To Someone You Trust

Lastly, make sure you talk to someone about what’s going on — even if it’s just venting about how frustrating it is dealing with your narcissistic ex! Talking helps put things into perspective and can help provide clarity on how best to approach the situation going forward. Plus, knowing that someone is listening and empathizing can help reduce stress levels significantly over time — which is essential for maintaining good mental health during this period of transition.

What are the signs that your partner is a narcissist

Narcissism is a personality disorder that is characterized by an exaggerated sense of self-importance, grandiosity, and an extreme need for attention and admiration.

While all of us have narcissistic tendencies from time to time, if your partner exhibits these behaviors on a consistent basis it may mean they are suffering from a full-blown narcissism disorder. Let’s take a look at the signs that may indicate your partner is a narcissist.

Grandiosity

One common trait of narcissists is their tendency to exaggerate their own importance or accomplishments. This can manifest in many different ways, such as bragging about their achievements or always needing to be the center of attention. In addition, they may also try to put other people down in order to make themselves look better by comparison.

If your partner always has to be the best at everything or always needs others to recognize their greatness, this could be a sign that they are exhibiting narcissistic behavior.

Lack of Empathy

Another key trait of narcissists is their inability (or unwillingness) to empathize with other people’s feelings and emotions. They may not show any interest in understanding how someone else might feel, even when it comes to something as simple as saying “I’m sorry” for hurtful words or actions. Instead, they tend to think only about themselves and what will make them happy or fulfilled in any given situation. If your partner never apologizes for anything and always seems focused on themselves rather than those around them, this could be another sign that they are exhibiting narcissistic behavior.

Manipulation

Narcissists often try to manipulate people into doing things that benefit them without considering how those actions might affect others. For example, they may constantly use guilt trips or emotional blackmail in order to get what they want from someone else without considering how that person might feel in the process. If your partner often tries to manipulate you into doing things against your will or without taking into account your feelings on the matter, this could also be an indication that they are exhibiting narcissistic behavior. 

What to do if your ex-narcissist won’t leave you alone

If your ex-narcissist won’t leave you alone, it can be a frustrating and exhausting experience.

The most important thing is to remember that you must focus on your own physical, mental and emotional safety first. This may mean setting strong boundaries with them and even asking family or friends for support.

It’s also crucial that you don’t engage in conversations or discussions with them because this will only result in giving them more control. Instead, do your best to go no contact if possible so they move on faster and leave you in peace. Although it won’t be easy to do, remembering that you have the ability to take back control is key; it’s ultimately up to you to protect yourself from being taken advantage of by an ex-narcissist.

Final Words

Dealing with a narcissist can be an exhausting and disempowering experience. It is important to remember that you have the power to protect yourself by setting boundaries, seeking support from family or friends, and going no contact if possible.

By doing so, you will not only take back control of your life but also help ensure that your ex-narcissist moves on faster and leaves you in peace. Taking these steps may seem daunting at first, but it is worth taking the time to do them for both your physical safety and mental wellbeing.