Realizing a narcissist can no longer use you can be both liberating and alarming.
Narcissism isn’t about self-love, as many perceive. It’s a manipulative disorder where a person uses others for their own gain, camouflaging their true intentions.
So, what happens when you see through their facade? Do they simply walk away? Or do they twist the situation to regain control?
In this article, we’re going to look at nine things a narcissist does when you become immune to their manipulations.
Let’s get started.
1) They stage a grand performance
Narcissists are skilled actors. They’re adept at portraying themselves as victims or heroes, depending on the situation.
When you see through their manipulative tactics, they don’t quietly retreat. Instead, they launch into a grand performance to regain control and influence.
They may play the victim card, portraying themselves as misunderstood and wronged. Or they might flip the script and paint you as the villain.
This is an attempt to make you question your judgment and pull you back into their sphere of influence. It’s essential to stay firm and not get swayed by this emotional manipulation.
2) They attempt to make you feel guilty
In my personal experience, one of the most common tactics narcissists use is guilt-tripping. When they realize they’re losing their grip on you, they’ll try to make you feel guilty for standing up for yourself.
I remember an ex-friend who was a master at this. The moment I started setting boundaries, she’d start accusing me of being selfish, uncaring, and even cruel. She’d remind me of all the ‘good times’ we had, and how I was “throwing it all away.”
In reality, I was merely asserting my right to be treated with respect. But the guilt-trips were relentless and designed to make me doubt my decision. It’s crucial to recognize this manipulation and stand your ground.
3) They give you the silent treatment
When the guilt trips and grand performances fail to reel you back in, narcissists might resort to the silent treatment. This is a form of emotional manipulation aimed at punishing you for asserting your independence.
Did you know that this kind of behavior is so prevalent among narcissists that psychologists have a term for it? It’s called “The Narcissistic Silent Treatment.”
It’s their way of saying, “If you don’t play by my rules, I won’t play at all.” But remember, you have the right to set your own rules and demand respect.
4) They try to sabotage your success
Narcissists always want to be the center of attention. When you break free from their control, they might attempt to sabotage your success out of spite or jealousy.
This could be as subtle as spreading rumors in your social circle to taint your image, or as aggressive as interfering with your professional life.
They aim to shake your confidence and make life difficult for you. Recognizing their tactics can help you protect yourself and maintain your success.
5) They start love-bombing you again
When a narcissist sees their control slipping away, they might resort to love-bombing, a manipulative tactic where they shower you with affection and praise to reel you back in.
It’s like their charming, attentive side has suddenly reappeared. They might send you gifts, compliment you excessively or become unusually helpful and caring.
But remember, this sudden change of heart isn’t genuine. It’s just another ploy to regain control. Don’t fall for it.
6) They gaslight you
Gaslighting is a powerful form of manipulation narcissists often use to make you doubt your reality. They will twist the truth, deny facts, and make you question your memory, perception, and sanity.
It can be incredibly disorienting and emotionally draining. When I was caught in the grip of a narcissist, they made me question my every thought and decision. It was as if I was walking on shifting sands, never sure of what was real and what was not.
If you’re being gaslighted, it’s important to trust yourself. You know your truth. Don’t let anyone take that away from you.
7) They make you the scapegoat
Narcissists have a knack for avoiding responsibility. When they can no longer use you, they might try to pin their failures or shortcomings on you.
I recall a past relationship where every argument or issue was somehow my fault. It was as if the narcissist in my life had an uncanny ability to twist any situation, making me the perpetrator and themselves the victim.
This is a tactic designed to make you feel guilty and keep you under their control. But remember, everyone is responsible for their own actions and decisions. You’re not responsible for anyone else’s shortcomings.
8) They become overly critical
Another tactic narcissists use when they can no longer manipulate you is to become overly critical. They may start belittling you, criticizing your decisions, and finding fault with everything you do.
Their harsh words are aimed at breaking your self-esteem and making you feel worthless. Their hope is that you’ll start doubting yourself and become dependent on them again for validation.
But remember, their criticism is a reflection of their insecurities, not your worth. Don’t let their negativity influence your self-esteem.
9) They move on to a new target
When you’ve successfully resisted their tactics, the narcissist may finally realize they can no longer use or manipulate you. So, they move on to a new target.
Their charm and attention shift to someone else who they perceive as easy prey. It’s important not to be fooled by this or feel replaced. Remember, their relationships are based on exploitation, not genuine affection.
The most crucial thing you should know is that their departure from your life is not a loss, but a significant gain. It’s your victory and the beginning of a healthier life without their toxic influence.
