I am happy to say I finally extricated myself from an incredibly toxic relationship with a “friend”. It’s been more than two years since our friendship ended; for the last year, I did my best to ignore her, keep my head down, and just live my life. My disinterest, combined with my refusal to let her control me, clearly enraged her. Determined to punish me, she moved heaven and earth to take me down. Initially, she easily manipulated other people to see things her way, but after a while, they realized the truth of the situation. I didn’t have to say a word. And now I’m done.
I encourage you to read through the list of narcissistic traits listed below. If you have a charming, fun, and attentive friend who you believe in your gut might be a narcissist…do yourself a favor and don’t get too close.
How Do You Know if Someone is a Narcissist?
Unfortunately, I am still struggling with the “friend” I described in a previous 50Plus-today article. She is unfortunately still in my life and a major thorn in my side. The good news is I no longer buy into her nonsense and at this point simply feel sorry for her. She sees herself as a victim convinced that the world is out to get her. How sad that she is so busy blaming others for her failures that she does not understand that she, like everyone, can take control and implement change. However, change is impossible without first taking responsibility for our behavior.
Narcissism is a sickness; one for which there is help, but no cure. It’s unfortunately that the obsessive need of the narcissist to believe in their own perfection will likely prevent them from seeing themselves in this article. On the off chance someone with a narcissistic personality does sit down to read this post, perhaps the list of characteristics described below will provide some helpful insight.
24 Characteristics of a Narcissist
Not all narcissists possess all these characteristics. These traits can exist on a spectrum, and various factors can influence the behavior of a narcissist, For example, upbringing, environmental influences, and other co-occurring mental health conditions. Here are some of the common traits to look out for.
- Lacks Empathy
- Looks for Outside Validation
- Feels Superior to Others
- Bad Listener
- Doesn’t Accept or Take Responsibility for Failures
- Doesn’t Respect Boundaries
- Takes Perfectionism to a Whole New Level
- Feels Entitled
- Treats People as a Means to an End
- Gives Unsolicited Advice
- Relies Heavily on Status Symbols to Show People Self Worth
- Consumed with Fantasies About Success
- Feels Rage Bubbling Just Beneath the Surface
- Has Unrealistic Expectations of Others
- Devastated by Even Minor Criticism
- Holds Grudges
- Overly Defensive
- Makes Decisions Without Considering Consequences
- Has Angry Outbursts Often
- Lies About Accomplishments
- Does Not Work Well With Others
- Hides True Feelings and Insecurities Even from Close Friends/Spouse
- Tends to Form Friendships with People Who Do Not Challenge Them
- Interprets Advice or Instructions from Others as an Indication They Think They Are Stupid
Not all Narcissistic Personalities Look the Same
Some are grandiose and extroverted; others are covert and may seem introverted and calm. Either way, narcissists make it their mission in life to convince people of their perfection, fearing exposure and humiliation. Also, both strongly believe they are victims and do not take responsibility for their role in any problem. It’s exhausting, and you need to set boundaries.
Unfortunately, if you think to yourself, “My friend is a narcissist”, it could very well be true. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and may be hard to recognize at first.
