A narcissist is someone who exhibits behavioral characteristics that are similar to those found in people with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). A lifelong pattern of specific negative behaviors, most notably an exaggerated sense of self-importance, excessive need for admiration, power, and control, a sense of entitlement and a lack of empathy distinguish the mental disorder, also known as narcissism. In this blog, we will discuss how to make a narcissist fear you.
Narcissists are also defined as selfish, arrogant, and manipulative. They believe they are superior to everyone else and will not hesitate to show it.
It can be challenging to build and sustain a healthy personal or professional connection with someone who exhibits these behaviors. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to protect yourself and even frighten a narcissist!
Here’s a guide on how to make a narcissist fear you:
Ways To Make A Narcissist Fear You
Let’s have a look at some productive ways to make a narcissist fear you.
Set limits.
Consequences are the one thing a narcissist fears the most. Make it obvious to a narcissist that their behavior is not acceptable if it is driving you crazy. Lay out calmly the exact behavior you want them to quit and warn them of the consequences if they continue to disrespect your boundaries.
A narcissist will be on high alert as a result of this challenge to their authority. It is arguably the healthiest and most effective technique to deal with a narcissist if you really value your relationship with that individual. Don’t bargain. Avoid arguing. Clearly state that your boundaries are unchangeable.
Call them out on their actions publicly.
While it may seem cruel to make someone feel humiliated in front of others, narcissists are people who crave approval from others, especially from people they regard more highly.
In essence, narcissists are eager to take advantage of good, quiet, sensitive, or compassionate people. They actively seek out these people, projecting their own anxieties onto them by criticizing others’ strengths.
They do this because they like to have control over others. As a result, using formal channels within your organization in addition to confronting a narcissist in public is the greatest method to hold them responsible.
Stick to the truth.
Watch them suffer when you refuse to conform to a narcissist’s perception of reality. Most narcissists have a distorted view of reality and will not acknowledge that there are other points of view. Keep to the facts while they’re being unreasonable. Keep your reaction measured and emotion-free if they attempt to twist the truth or use illogical reasoning. If a narcissist tries to complain about someone breaking a commitment, you could respond by pointing out that, given what you know about them, it doesn’t make sense for them to suddenly change their conduct.
Don’t let them talk over you.
If a narcissist talks over you or interrupts you, cut them off immediately and continue speaking. Take away the comfort that a narcissist gets from being in control of the conversation by being firm and speaking exactly what you want to say.
If someone interrupts you, don’t be afraid to say, “Excuse me, I’m not finished talking,” or, “Oh, I’m not done yet.” When a narcissist crosses the line, confronting them might cause emotional reactions, but if you want to instill terror in them, they need to know you mean business.
Ignore their ridiculous mental tricks.
Narcissists want you to go along with their game, so when you don’t, it scares them. Did they text you with a clear attempt to manipulate you? Neglect it. Did they unfairly criticize you in front of others? Keep the conversation going and give them a side look. They’ll feel more uneasy the less sway you give their cunning strategies.
When playing mind tricks in public, it can be preferable to call them out when they cross the line. It’s usually best to ignore them if they’re acting innocuously or blatantly trying to provoke you, though.
Tease them.
A narcissist despises being put down, even as a joke. You don’t want to be too mean or you’ll lose control, but subtle teasing will drive a narcissist insane. If they try to slip in a tiny little manipulated comment or are being passive-aggressive, make it into a joke. If you’re too harsh, they’ll just use it to play the victim card. A little teasing goes a long way in this situation.
Be outspoken.
Being active and present will discourage narcissists. Like bullies in the schoolyard, narcissists are less inclined to pick on you if they perceive you to be a formidable opponent. Do not be afraid to dominate a conversation, stand in the center of the gathering, or interrupt the narcissist when they attempt to change the subject.
They could be deterred from stepping out of line by this. Be mindful of your body language when around narcissists. Do not fumble, avoid eye contact, or lean away from them. Don’t be afraid to approach them immediately, create eye contact with them, and enter their personal space.
Get others to support you.
You can do this by telling your mutual friends and family members explicitly that the narcissist needs to be confronted or by subtly influencing social interactions so that more people share your opinion. When you next confront the narcissist, ask them to stand by you, or inspire others to oppose them. If this narcissist is blatantly out of line, it’s preferable to notify mutual friends and relatives of what you’re doing immediately. If they’re too much of a chameleon to truly cross the line in apparent and blatant ways, it’s best to be indirect.
Final Thoughts
Cut off the narcissist from your life. Being left alone is the one thing a narcissist fears the most. If you ever find yourself in the same room as them, don’t acknowledge their presence. Block their phone number and unfriend them on social media.
This will destroy a narcissist rather than just terrify them. Moving on is perfectly okay if you’ve tried your hardest in the relationship but still find it difficult to sustain it.