They Don’t Want Connection – They Want Control: The Subtle Manipulation Behind a Narcissist’s Promises
Have you ever opened your heart, spoken your truth, and told someone you love that you feel disconnected—only to have them respond with something that sounds empathetic, but still leaves you feeling hollow? Something like: “I’ll look for ways for you to feel more connected to me.” At first glance, that sounds kind. Thoughtful even. […]
When Love Costs Too Much: How Narcissists Use Coercive Control and Financial Abuse to Trap Their Partners
When we talk about domestic abuse, most people picture physical violence. But some of the most devastating forms of abuse never leave a bruise. They hide behind bank statements, control disguised as “concern,” and a slow erosion of independence masked as “protection.” If you’ve ever felt like your partner was managing your money more than […]
“Did That Man Just Throw a Toddler-Style Temper Tantrum?” And Other Things You Find Yourself Saying When You’re Involved With a Narcissist
You know something is very, very wrong when you’re staring at a grown, and let’s be honest, well past middle aged man with a dad-bod, receding hairline, and a retirement account, and think to yourself, “Did he really just throw a full-blown toddler-style temper tantrum because I said no to him?” Yes. Yes, he did. […]
I Didn’t Consent to the Abuse: A Survivor’s Journey Through Reactive Abuse, Mislabeling, and the Truth About Healing.
For those of us who have survived a lifetime of narcissistic abuse, the journey to healing isn’t a straight line. It’s a spiral – through pain, through truth, through guilt, through the heavy fog of confusion and shame, and sometimes… through the heartbreaking judgments of those we love most. I am a survivor of long-term […]
“Back to Square One”: The Narcissist’s Favorite Manipulation Line When You Stop Playing Their Game
If you’ve ever stood your ground in a relationship with a narcissist, you’ve likely heard this phrase:“I’m back to square one with you.” It might sound harmless. Maybe even logical. But make no mistake – this is not an innocent comment. It’s a manipulation tactic. A frustrated narcissist’s way of saying: You stopped complying. You […]
The One Thing Narcissists Can’t Fake – And Why That Makes Them So Dangerous
Let’s just get to the point:The number one thing a narcissist cannot fake no matter how convincing they seem is genuine empathy. Sure, they can act empathetic. They can cry on cue. Say all the right things. Hold your hand at the exact moment you need comfort. But here’s the cold truth: it’s all a […]
Narcissistic Abuse Is Total Annihilation, And You’re Not Crazy for Feeling That Way
When people hear the term narcissistic abuse, they often imagine selfish behavior, emotional manipulation, or gaslighting. But for those who’ve lived it, narcissistic abuse is far more than toxic dynamics. It is total annihilation of the self. It’s the slow, calculated erasure of your truth, your voice, your sense of safety, and your very identity. […]
5 Powerful Ways to Break Trauma Bonds with a Narcissistic Partner And Reclaim the Life You Were Meant to Manifest
When you’re entangled in a relationship with someone who exhibits high narcissistic traits, it’s not just about heartbreak. it’s about breaking free from a psychological bind that has kept you hooked through cycles of pain and temporary relief. These trauma bonds aren’t built on love. They’re built on intermittent reinforcement, manipulation, gaslighting, and the illusion […]
When the Victim Looks Like the Narcissist: The Ultimate Gaslighting Trap
One of the most insidious things about narcissistic abuse is how it flips the script not just in the eyes of the narcissist, but in the eyes of everyone else, too. You can spend years walking on eggshells, trying to keep the peace, giving second chances, and staying quiet to “keep things from getting worse.” […]
What Kind of Personality Attracts a Narcissist? (And How to Stop the Cycle)
Narcissists don’t just pick anyone at random. They’re like energetic vampires – drawn to the warmth, light, and empathy of people who shine brightly. But being targeted by a narcissist isn’t a reflection of weakness. In fact, it often means you’re strong, intuitive, loving, and resilient – the very traits they want to control, consume, […]