Narcissists are constantly seeking attention, power, and admiration from others.
They seem strong, untouchable, and perfect, but deep down they have several weaknesses they try to hide at all costs. The good news is that you can use your understanding of their vulnerabilities to protect yourself.
Whether you are in a relationship with one or working (or living) with them, knowing their weak points can help you recognize their manipulations and protect your energy. There’s no need to engage in drama or fall for the act.
Before you can protect yourself, it’s important to understand that even narcissists have vulnerabilities and fears.
They may seem invincible and all-powerful on the outside, but inside they are deeply insecure and sensitive. They try to cover this up by acting tough and demanding constant admiration, but their vulnerabilities can often be found in the places where their narcissism is challenged.
They are sensitive to criticism, rejection, failure, and exposure.
With that in mind, here are the 9 most significant weaknesses of narcissists and why they matter.
9 Weaknesses Of Narcissists
1. Criticism
Narcissists have fragile egos and are very sensitive to criticism. They need constant admiration and praise, and if someone criticizes them, they will try to make that person feel guilty and inferior.
It’s very important to stay calm and neutral when dealing with a narcissist, especially when they are trying to criticize you.
Related; How to Make a Narcissistic Husband Miserable
2. Rejection
Narcissists have a huge fear of rejection and of being abandoned by those around them. If you reject a narcissist, they will do everything in their power to make you feel guilty and inferior for doing so.
It’s important to set boundaries with a narcissist and stick to them, even if they try to guilt-trip you into giving in. Narcissists often play the victim to manipulate others into doing what they want.
3. Exposure
Narcissists are terrified of being exposed for who they really are, so they will do anything to keep their true selves hidden. They are also very sensitive to any kind of exposure, whether it’s criticism or rejection.
It’s important not to over-explain yourself when talking to a narcissist. They will twist your words and use them against you later.
Related: How To Starve A Narcissist
4. Lack of Empathy
Narcissists lack empathy for others and only care about themselves and their own needs. They are not capable of putting themselves in someone else’s shoes. When you are dealing with a narcissist, it’s important not to expect them to empathize with your situation.
5. Control
Narcissists need to feel in control of everything at all times. If you try to take away their control, they will fight you tooth and nail to get it back.
It’s important not to let a narcissist dictate your life and decisions. They will try to manipulate and control you, but you have the power to set boundaries and hold to them.
6. Power
Narcissists need to feel powerful all the time. If they don’t feel like they have power over you, they will try to find ways to take it.
It’s important not to give a narcissist power over your emotions or decisions. They will try to manipulate and control you, but you have the power to set boundaries and stick to them.
7. Attention
Narcissists are constantly seeking attention and admiration. If they don’t feel they are getting enough from you, they will look elsewhere.
It’s important not to give a narcissist too much attention when they are being manipulative or passive-aggressive. They will use your attention as fuel for their behavior.
Related: How To Make A Narcissist Tell You The Truth
8. Approval
Narcissists need constant approval from others to feel good about themselves. If you don’t approve of something they’re doing, they will go to great lengths to make sure that you do—or at least pretend to.
It’s important not to give a narcissist the approval they crave. They will try to manipulate and control you, but you have the power to set boundaries and maintain them.
9. Admiration
Narcissists also crave admiration. If you don’t admire them for something they’ve done, they will go out of their way to force or fake that admiration.
It’s important not to give a narcissist the admiration they demand. They will try to manipulate and control you, but again, you have the power to set boundaries and enforce them.
As you can see, each of these weaknesses explains why narcissists act the way they do.
By understanding these vulnerabilities, you can protect yourself by not falling for their manipulations and by setting clear boundaries.
Avoid falling for their act or trying to “fix” them, as this will only make you a target for further manipulation.
Conclusion
Even though narcissists seem strong and powerful, they are actually deeply insecure and sensitive. Their biggest weaknesses revolve around criticism, rejection, exposure, and lack of empathy.
By understanding these 9 weaknesses, you can better protect yourself from their manipulations and control. Don’t let a narcissist drain your energy. Instead, focus on surrounding yourself with people who are genuinely supportive and caring.
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