9 Things Narcissists Can't Stand (Makes Them Miserable)

 

9 Things Narcissists Can't Stand (Makes Them Miserable)

Dealing with a narcissist can be a challenging and exhausting experience. Their inflated sense of self-importance and lack of empathy can make relationships with them extremely toxic. But have you ever wondered what makes narcissists truly miserable?
While narcissists may present themselves as confident and self-assured (except for the covert narcissists), there are certain things that they can't stand.

Narcissism is a mental health disorder exhibited primarily through an overinflated ego, disregard for the feelings of others, and belief that one is more important than anyone else. Narcissists love to call attention to themselves and truly believe they are admired and highly esteemed.

These patterns involve at least five of the following, per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).

• Needing a lot of admiration
• Having an overblown, grandiose view of oneself
• Obsession with dreams of brilliance, success, power, or ideal love
• Believing they are superior to others and that only people on their level can understand them.
• Arrogance
• Displaying envy
• Lacking empathy and unable to recognize others' needs.
• Having expectations and an attitude of entitlement
• Propensity to exploit.

In this article, we will uncover nine things that narcissists absolutely cannot stand. Understanding these triggers can help you navigate your interactions with narcissistic individuals more effectively.

1- The Fear of Being Ignored

One thing that narcissists simply cannot stand is being ignored. They thrive on attention and adoration, so when they are not being acknowledged or given the spotlight, it makes them incredibly uncomfortable. Narcissists loathe feeling insignificant, which is why they often go to great lengths to ensure that they are the center of attention in any given situation.

2- Being Criticized & Rejected

Criticism and rejection are absolute nightmares for narcissists. They have fragile egos and are highly sensitive to any form of criticism or disapproval. Even the slightest hint of criticism can trigger intense feelings of shame and insecurity within a narcissist. As a result, they will often go to great lengths to avoid situations where they might face judgment or rejection.

3- Being Confronted With The Truth

Narcissists have a deep aversion to being held accountable for their actions. They believe that they are above reproach and refuse to take responsibility for the consequences of their behavior. When confronted with their mistakes or wrongdoings, narcissists will often deflect blame onto others or make excuses to avoid facing the truth.

4- Not Being Recognized/Validated

Validation and admiration are like fuel to a narcissist's ego. They constantly seek validation and approval from others to maintain their inflated sense of self-worth. When they are not receiving the admiration they crave, they feel a deep sense of emptiness and worthlessness. Without external validation, narcissists' true insecurities and self-doubt come to the surface, making them miserable.

5- Losing Control

Narcissists have an insatiable need for control. They want to be in charge of every aspect of their lives and the lives of those around them. When they are faced with situations where they have little or no control, it triggers feelings of anxiety and distress. Losing control exposes their vulnerabilities and makes them feel helpless, which goes against their grandiose self-image.

6- Deep Connection & Empathy

One of the defining traits of narcissism is a lack of empathy. Narcissists have little capacity to understand or share the feelings of others. Genuine emotional connections are virtually impossible for them to establish. However, deep down, narcissists often envy those who can truly connect with others on an emotional level. Their inability to form meaningful connections leaves them feeling isolated and alone.

7- Being Exposed

Narcissists go to great lengths to create and maintain a carefully crafted image of perfection. They construct a facade of superiority and success to hide their insecurities. When their true selves are exposed or their flaws are revealed, narcissists can't bear the shame that follows. This fear of exposure fuels their need to control and manipulate others to ensure their true selves remain hidden.

8- Boundaries

Narcissists have a deep disdain for boundaries and limitations. They believe that they are entitled to do as they please without any consequences. When others establish boundaries or try to set limitations, narcissists often react with anger and resistance. The idea of not being able to have their way or control others is a significant blow to their ego, making them feel powerless and frustrated.

9- Not Being the Center of Attention

A narcissist’s sense of self-worth depends entirely on external validation. To get this validation, they need attention. They feel intense anger, anxiety, contempt, jealousy, and vengeful feelings when they aren’t the center of attention. They often interact at this state like a passive aggressive, small child, manipulating in any possible way to get all attention on them.

In conclusion, narcissists are deeply affected by certain triggers that make them truly miserable. Understanding these triggers can help you better navigate your interactions with narcissistic individuals and protect your own well-being. Remember, maintaining healthy boundaries and prioritizing your own mental health is crucial when dealing with narcissists.