RULES OF A NARCISSIST

Do as I say, not as I do.

I’m never wrong.

It’s my way or the highway.

The world revolves around me.

I don’t like to be number 2. If I’m not happy, nobody is going to be happy.

If you are happy, I’ll soon change that.

We’ll do it my way.

If you confront me, I’ll deny everything.

If you catch me in a lie, I’ll twist the truth until you doubt your own memory.

If you need comfort, I’ll give you silence.

If you show weakness, I’ll use it against you.

If you set boundaries, I’ll accuse you of being selfish.

If you ask for honesty, I’ll give you half-truths and deflection.

If you try to hold me accountable, I’ll play the victim.

If you succeed at something, I’ll minimize it or take credit for it.

If you shine too brightly, I’ll find a way to dim your light.

If you expose who I really am, I’ll smear your name to protect my image.

If you walk away, I’ll chase just long enough to pull you back—then punish you for leaving.

If you love me, I’ll drain you. If you leave me, I’ll hate you.

With a narcissist, the rules are simple: they win, you lose. Their happiness comes at the expense of yours. Their comfort comes before your peace. And the moment you forget that, the moment you start reclaiming your power, they’ll rewrite the rules all over again to keep control.