You get love bombed out of the blue by an attractive / charismatic person, fall in love way too fast, and boom… you become a couple, and maybe move in with each other a little too soon. Later into the relationship, you realize that the person you initially got together with is not the same person they were portraying to you when you first met. After doing your own research, and hopefully speaking with a professional skilled in relationships, you conclude that your relationship is toxic, that you’re in a relationship with a narcissistic person and now, you want out.

When breaking up with a true narcissist, expect these 5 things to happen:

1. They will lie to you to get you back. Expect false promises galore.
2. They will start to become who you always wanted them to be, temporarily.
3. They will cry to manipulate your empathy so that the attention goes back to them and not about you.
4. They will exploit your own characteristics, use your own language, basically mirror you, showing you that they’ve listened to what you need the entire time but have decided not to give it to you, until now.
5. If the previous 4 attempts to win you back don’t work, they will then turn on you and blame you for everything. Expect them to discard you and move onto new narcissistic supply pretty fast.

Navigating toxic personality types can be overwhelming.

Building a solid foundation within yourself, increasing your self-esteem through achievable personal goals, and talking with a professional counselor are all necessary ways to begin developing a healthy self-image. In doing so, you’ll have the strength and clarity to better deal with the relationships in your life.

If you are having a difficult time breaking up with your partner, or need to figure out what the best course of action for you is, please contact our counselors today.