We have already identified a narcissist and we are ready to break free from their shackles. How do we go about these? Below are a few steps to guide you on this path.
First, know yourself. Being with or living with a narcissist warrants a lot of insults and projections. How then does one protect themselves from this? Knowing your own strengths and weaknesses makes it easier for you to reject any unfair projections and/or criticism from the narcissist. So, take time to learn yourself. Know what you are good at and what you’re not. This will give you a sort of a shield against the false accusations.
Next, let go of the need for approval. A narcissist will keep projecting onto you if they feel like you are insecure or have a low self-esteem. This gives them the ground to assert dominance and be entitled. Detach yourself from the narcissist’s opinions and do not let them define you. Know the truth about yourself and stick by that no matter the narcissist’s opinions.
Finally, do not argue with a narcissist. When they attack you, you may definitely want to defend yourself and prove the narcissist wrong. But no matter how much you try, it is very unlikely that they will listen to you. An argument may escalate and lead to a very unpleasant situation. If you disagree with the narcissist, simply tell them and move on. Do not let it escalate into a back and forth as this often ends badly and not for the narcissist.
Leaving a narcissist can be very difficult, but when it’s done, it feels really great. Its refreshing. It feels like breaking free from claws that were set deep inside your bones. Leaving may take months, even years, to heal. But every single day of these will be worth it. You begin to feel lighter, the sun shines brighter, and your self-worth begins to find a new and purposeful meaning.
