In the world of relationships, love, and companionship, narcissistic men present a unique challenge to a normal person. These individuals are driven by an insatiable need for superiority and an unquenchable thirst for validation. Being in a relationship with a narcissistic man is a rollercoaster of emotions, as their constant desire to outshine others, including their own partners is continuous.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a mental condition characterised by an inflated sense of self-importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.
One of the defining features of narcissistic men is their relentless pursuit of superiority and the quest for grandeur. They believe they are inherently better than others and they are determined to prove it at every opportunity. This superiority complex will manifest in various ways in relationship.
- Narcissistic men often vie for attention in overt and covert ways sometimes making grandiose claims to divert attention back to themselves.
- When their partners achieve success or receive praise, narcissistic men will downplay these accomplishments to maintain their sense of superiority. They find it challenging to celebrate someone else’s achievements without feeling threatened.
- They dismiss their partner’s opinions and ideas believing their perspective is the only valid one and are unwilling to even discuss anything outside of it.
- Narcissistic men never say sorry and never admit when they are wrong. They will go to the ends of the earth to avoid acknowledging mistakes or taking responsibility for their actions because to do so undermines their self-perceived superiority.
- The narcissistic man needs validation. They rely on external sources for admiration and affirmation to boost their fragile self-esteem. This constant need for validation will be overwhelming and exhausting for you.
- They fish for compliments. Making statements like ‘what would you do with out me’ on a regular basis The constant need for reassurance is draining.
- When their need for validation is not met, it will lead to emotional volatility. They may become irritable, moody and even more manipulative.
- Narcissistic men often have a deep-seated fear of abandonment, stemming from their fragile self-esteem and unresolved childhood traumas. This fear leads to clingy behaviour and an obsession with keeping their partner’s attention. This is why they want you to stay home with them all the time.
- Being in a relationship with a narcissistic man will take a toll on your emotional well-being. You will feel drained from catering to their needs for validation and constant attention and you will feel like you are in a one-sided relationship where your feelings and needs are disregarded even when you have made your concerns clear about the things you need emotionally.
- Over time, the relentless pursuit of superiority will lead to diminished self-esteem in yourself. The constant comparison to an idealised image created by the narcissistic man will leave you feeling inadequate and incapable.
- Because the narcissistic man is ‘always right; it is difficult to have effective communication in the relationship. It becomes challenging to have open and honest discussions when one party is unwilling to consider other perspectives.
- Women of narcissistic men may find themselves increasingly isolated from friends and family. Narcissistic individuals often try to control their partner’s social interactions to ensure they remain the centre of attention.
Coping Strategies
If you find yourself in a relationship with a narcissistic man, it’s crucial to develop coping strategies to protect your well-being until it is safe to leave.
- Set clear boundaries to protect your emotional health as best you can. Communicate your needs and expectations with confidence and assertiveness. Be prepared for the conversation to go left.
- Reach out to friends, family and or a therapist for support and guidance. Having a support system will provide you with the emotional strength to deal with the everyday challenges that come with being in a relationship with a narcist.
- Practice Self-Care. Prioritize loving on yourself to maintain your emotional and physical well-being. Engage in activities that make you feel fulfilled and supported before you hit rock bottom.
Finally…
I said all of this to say… Navigating a relationship with a narcissistic man can be emotionally taxing due to their constant need to feel superior and the constant need for validation. Understand the signs of narcissistic behaviour and take proactive steps to protect your own well-being. A healthy relationship is built on mutual respect, empathy, and support, rather than a never-ending competition. If it feels off, or if you are constantly questioning your role in the relationship and every conversation around it leads to an argument. It’s a red flag……This blog is a place where I prove to you that there is life beyond unhealthy relationships and the superiority complex of a narc…it’s a place where I prove to you that you have all that you need and it’s a place where I prove to you that….you are not alone…you got this and I love you.
Onika Sabrina
