If someone consistently does these 15 things, they might be a narcissist

There’s a fine line between self-confidence and narcissism, and sometimes, it’s easy to unintentionally cross that line. 

This article isn’t about labeling or finger-pointing, it’s about understanding behaviors to encourage self-reflection and growth. 

Here, we’ll delve into 15 signs that might indicate someone leans towards narcissism. 

As you read, remember, self-awareness is the first step towards change.

1) They dominate conversations

One of the most noticeable traits of a narcissist is their need to dominate conversations. 

Narcissists typically talk about themselves, their accomplishments, and their interests, often neglecting to ask about others’ thoughts or experiences. 

They may also interrupt others frequently or redirect the conversation back to themselves. 

According to psychologists, this behavior stems from a narcissist’s need for constant attention and admiration.

2) They are often unapologetic

Narcissists struggle to accept responsibility for their actions, and as a result, they rarely apologize. 

Even when they’re clearly in the wrong, they’ll often manipulate the situation to appear as though they’re the victim. 

Social psychologists highlight this trait, noting that narcissists’ inability to apologize may be due to their fear of damaging their self-image.

3) They react aggressively to criticism

Narcissists are known for their inability to handle criticism. Even the smallest critique can be perceived as a personal attack and is often met with hostility or defensiveness. 

This reaction is due to a narcissist’s heightened sensitivity to perceived threats to their self-worth.

4) They lack empathy

Narcissists often struggle to show genuine empathy. They may dismiss others’ feelings or experiences, or fail to show concern for others’ hardships. 

Their world often revolves around their own feelings, making it hard for them to truly understand or validate someone else’s perspective.

5) They have a grandiose sense of self-importance

People with narcissistic tendencies often have an inflated sense of self-importance. 

They believe they’re superior to others and expect to be recognized as such, even when they haven’t achieved anything significant. 

This could be manifesting as excessive bragging, over-exaggerating their achievements, or demeaning others to elevate themselves.

6) They are obsessed with power and control

A strong desire for power and control is a hallmark sign of a narcissist. 

They often need to be in charge, make all decisions, and dictate the course of events. 

They may manipulate situations or people to maintain this control, often disregarding others’ feelings, needs, or rights in the process. 

This could manifest in personal relationships, professional settings, or even casual social interactions.

7) They constantly need validation

Deep down, narcissists crave constant validation and admiration from others. They seek out compliments and positive reinforcement, and they’re always fishing for praise.

Whether it’s for their looks, intelligence, or accomplishments, they never seem to get enough. 

But, the validation they seek is not just to boost their confidence. Rather, it serves as an external affirmation of the grandiose self-image they’ve constructed. 

They feel an incessant need to prove to others (and often to themselves) that they are as special as they believe themselves to be. 

It’s like an insatiable hunger, and every compliment, every bit of praise, is just another morsel that temporarily satiates, but never fully satisfies.

8) They hold grudges

Narcissists are notorious for holding grudges. This is often tied to their inability to handle criticism or perceived slights. 

If they feel they have been wronged, even in a trivial way, they may harbor resentment for an extended period. 

It doesn’t matter if the offense was real or imagined – to a narcissist, the emotional reaction is the same. 

This grudge-holding often manifests as passive-aggressive behavior, icy silence, or even direct retaliation. 

This behavior not only damages their relationships but also keeps them stuck in a cycle of negativity and perceived victimhood.

9) They frequently break rules

For narcissists, rules often seem to be more like suggestions that don’t necessarily apply to them. 

This trait is due to their grandiose sense of self-importance and the belief that they’re special or exceptional. 

They may feel that they’re above the rules or that the rules shouldn’t apply to them. 

Whether it’s cutting in line, ignoring traffic rules, or bending workplace policies, narcissists have a penchant for rule-breaking. 

Notably, this isn’t out of a rebellious spirit or a principled stand against unfair rules. Instead, it’s rooted in their belief that they’re entitled to preferential treatment.

10) They use others to achieve their goals

A narcissist views people as tools to achieve their goals. 

They have a transactional approach to relationships, viewing interactions in terms of what they can gain. 

They’re willing to exploit others without guilt or shame to get what they want, whether it’s money, status, power, or something else. 

It’s not a reciprocal or mutual exchange; it’s about taking what they need or want without consideration for the other person.

11) They’re always competing

Narcissists are perpetually in competition mode. Whether it’s a casual conversation or a professional situation, they always have to be the best. 

They’ll try to outdo others, always one-upping to prove their superiority. 

This isn’t limited to areas where they excel; they’ll even compete in areas outside of their expertise or interest, simply to assert their dominance.

12) They’re charming… at first

Narcissists can be incredibly charming. They’re often charismatic and good at making a great first impression. 

They use this charm to draw people in and maintain control in relationships. 

But this charm often fades over time, especially when they feel they’ve secured the admiration or control they were seeking. 

This is when the other, less appealing traits start to surface more prominently.

13) They’re extremely sensitive to rejection

Despite their seemingly tough exterior, narcissists are extremely sensitive to rejection. 

Their sense of self-worth is typically derived from how others perceive them, so any hint of rejection can be devastating. 

They may react with anger, disdain, or attempts to belittle the person who has rejected them, all as a defense mechanism to protect their inflated self-image. 

This sensitivity often results in narcissists having difficulty maintaining long-term relationships, as they can’t handle the inevitable ups and downs that come with them.

14) They tend to project their insecurities onto others

Narcissists are experts at projection – attributing their own undesirable feelings or traits to someone else. 

For example, if they feel insecure about their intelligence, they might constantly criticize someone else’s intellect. 

By projecting their insecurities onto others, they’re able to maintain their superior self-image and avoid confronting their own shortcomings.

15) They frequently gaslight others

Gaslighting is a manipulative tactic narcissists often employ to maintain control and power in relationships. 

They’ll twist facts, deny reality, and sow seeds of doubt to make the other person question their own memory, perception, or sanity. 

Over time, the victim of gaslighting may start to question their own reality and become more dependent on the narcissist for their version of truth. 

This insidious form of manipulation allows the narcissist to maintain the upper hand and avoid accountability.

How to effectively call out a narcissist

Use “I” statements

When addressing a narcissist, use “I” statements to express how you feel, rather than “you” statements, which can feel accusatory and put the narcissist on the defensive. 

For example, say “I felt hurt when…” instead of “You always…”.

Set firm boundaries

Set firm boundaries and stick to them. 

Let the narcissist know what behavior is unacceptable and what the consequences will be if they cross the line.

Keep emotions in check

Avoid showing too much emotion, as narcissists can use this against you. 

They thrive on eliciting emotional responses. Maintain a calm, clear tone.

Stay focused

Don’t let the narcissist deflect the conversation or shift blame. Keep bringing the discussion back to the original issue.

Seek professional help

If the narcissist is open to it, seek help from a mental health professional. 

They can provide guidance on how to navigate these difficult conversations.

Practice self-care

Remember to take care of yourself, too. Dealing with a narcissist can be draining. 

Make sure you’re attending to your own emotional and mental health needs.

Final words

In navigating the complex world of dealing with a narcissist, your own self-protection is paramount. 

It’s crucial to keep in mind that you are not responsible for their behavior, and you are certainly not obligated to endure their manipulative tactics. 

Instead, your priority should be establishing clear boundaries, practicing regular self-care, and seeking support when needed. 

Remember: It’s not about winning battles against them but ensuring your own emotional well-being. 

There’s an inherent strength in understanding the signs of narcissism and equipping yourself with the knowledge and tools to handle such relationships effectively.