How Empaths Can Outsmart Narcissists (9 Ways)

 How Empaths Can Outsmart Narcissists (9 Ways)

A narcissist and an empath have a one-sided relationship in which one is the giver and the other takes as much as they can while leaving the other dry.

Empaths and narcissists are two personality types that often find themselves in relationships that can be challenging, to say the least. Empaths are those who are highly attuned to the emotions of others and are often drawn to helping and caring for those in need. Narcissists, on the other hand, are those who are highly self-centered and have an inflated sense of self-importance.

When these two personality types come together, it can create a toxic dynamic where the empath is constantly giving, and the narcissist is constantly taking. As the narcissist will toy with an empath by using their insecurities against them and then turn around and use those same insecurities to get closer to the empath again. 

The psychotherapist and author of "The Empath's Survival Guide," Judith Orloff, claims that this is a toxic attraction that will end badly.

Empaths are "a giving, loving person who is going to try and be devoted to you, love you, and listen to you," she added. "What narcissists see in empaths is a giving, loving person." "Unfortunately, because initially this is about a false self, empaths are drawn to narcissists. When you don't do things their way, narcissists go from appearing charming, bright, and even giving to becoming cold, withholding, and punishing. But it doesn't have to be this way. 

Here're 9 Ways That Empaths Can Outsmart Narcissists And Take Control of The Relationship.

1. Don't Take It Personally

Narcissists often project their own insecurities onto others. If they are critical of you or your actions, don't take it personally. It's likely more about them than it is about you.

2. Set Boundaries

Empaths are natural givers, but it's important to set boundaries with narcissists. Be clear about what you will and won't tolerate in the relationship. This can include things like disrespectful behavior, manipulation, or gaslighting.

Related Article: 5 Surprising Reasons Why Empaths Continually Attracted to Toxic People?

3. Stay Calm

Narcissists thrive on drama and chaos, so it's important to remain calm and composed when dealing with them. Don't let their emotions and reactions dictate your own.

4. Keep Your Expectations Realistic

Don't expect a narcissist to change or become more empathetic. They are who they are, and it's unlikely that they will suddenly become more self-aware.

5. Don't Engage in Power Struggles

Narcissists love to be in control and will often engage in power struggles. Don't take the bait. Instead, focus on maintaining your own sense of power and control in the relationship.

6. Practice Self-Care

Empaths often put others' needs before their own, but it's important to practice self-care in order to maintain your own emotional health and well-being.

7. Use the Gray Rock Method

The Gray Rock Method involves becoming as uninteresting and unresponsive as possible when dealing with a narcissist. This can help to minimize drama and emotional manipulation.

8. Seek Support

Dealing with a narcissist can be emotionally draining. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist to help you navigate the relationship.

9. Consider Ending the Relationship

If the relationship becomes too toxic or damaging, consider ending it. Remember that your own emotional health and well-being should always come first.

In conclusion, empaths can outsmart narcissists by setting boundaries, staying calm, not taking things personally, keeping expectations realistic, avoiding power struggles, using the Gray Rock Method, practicing self-care, seeking support, and considering ending the relationship if necessary. By taking these steps, empaths can take control of the relationship and protect their own emotional health and well-being.