Early warning signs (Red Flags) in a relationship with a narcissist can include:
- Excessive Charm and Flattery: At the beginning, a narcissist may shower you with compliments and attention to win your trust and admiration quickly.
- Lack of Empathy: They are unable to genuinely empathize with others, which can become evident when they seem indifferent to your emotions or the emotions of others.
- Need for Control: They often want to control the relationship and your actions, making decisions for you or overriding your opinions and preferences.
- Boundary Violations: Disregarding your personal boundaries or trying to test them early on is a common trait.
- Grandiosity: They may often talk about their achievements or fantasies of unlimited success and power, expecting admiration for their perceived superiority.
- Manipulation: Narcissists might manipulate situations to their advantage, making you feel as if your feelings or desires are unimportant.
- Sense of Entitlement: They believe they deserve special treatment or privileges and may become angry if they do not get what they want.
- Gaslighting: This involves making you doubt your perceptions or reality, often making you feel confused or questioning your own sanity.
- Constant Seeking of Validation: They often seek constant validation and approval from others to bolster their self-esteem.
- Quick to Anger: Any perceived slight or criticism can lead to anger, and they may react harshly to maintain their self-image.
