We’ve all been in a situation where someone has said something or done something that leaves us feeling hurt and confused. Maybe it’s a friend, family member, partner, romantic-interest, colleague – whatever the case may be – the way we felt after being manipulated can leave lasting impressions. In this blog post I will explore some of the common manipulative phrases employed by narcissistic personalities and offer practical tips for protecting yourself from further manipulation attempts throughout your relationship with them.
1. “You’re Too Sensitive” Narcissists are attempting to undermine your emotions and deflect responsibility onto you. This cunning manipulation leaves you questioning your own instincts. Stay vigilant, as these tactics are cleverly disguised.
2. “I’m joking” Narcissists often employ this tactic to evade accountability for their hurtful words. By disguising their harmful remarks as jokes, they attempt to deflect blame and avoid taking responsibility for the impact of their words. This manipulative behavior can make it challenging to confront or address the narcissist’s hurtful actions, leaving those on the receiving end feeling invalidated and confused.
3. “No one else thinks that way” Making You Feel Like the Odd One Out. They want you to believe there’s something wrong with you by claiming no one else shares your perspective. They even suggest kind and compassionate people don’t utter such things.
4. “You’re Overreacting!” Anything that belittles your concerns. If you’ve noticed these warning signs, it’s a form of manipulative speech. Have faith in your gut feeling and emotions, as our hearts often know the truth before our brains catch up. Are you aware of heart math? You can practice coherence exercises and meditations to align your heart and brain. So, trust your instincts and emotions, knowing that you are in sync.