Dealing with a narcissist can be challenging, as their behavior often revolves around manipulation and self-interest.

However, understanding their tactics and responding strategically can level the playing field.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a real psychological diagnosis, and it’s not just someone being self-absorbed.

Understanding this disorder can give the masses tools to manage their relationship with narcissistic people—to level the playing field and play them at their own game.

According to psychology, there are eight effective ways to outmaneuver a narcissist and protect one’s emotional well-being while turning their own strategies against them:

1) Understanding their tactics

Narcissists are masters of manipulation, often using guilt-trips or playing the victim to get their way.

Let’s say someone asks a narcissist to do something simple, like taking out the trash—instead of doing it or straightforwardly refusing, they might say something like, “Just because I didn’t do it right when you asked doesn’t mean I won’t do it.”

Suddenly, they’ve turned the person’s reasonable request into an unreasonable demand—the person may even start feeling guilty for asking in the first place.

This type of manipulation can make anyone feel overbearing or controlling when, in reality, they’ve just made a simple request.

Instead of falling into the guilt-trip trap, the victim can calmly hold their ground and maintain their boundaries—asserting dominance, if need be.

This isn’t about becoming a manipulator but, by understanding their actions, the victim can protect their own emotional health and wellbeing.

2) Showing empathy

It might seem odd, but displaying empathy can be a powerful tool when dealing with a narcissist.

These narcissists thrive on conflict and negative reactions, as it feeds their need for attention and control; but, when someone responds with understanding and compassion, it can throw them off balance.

Rather than reacting defensively to their provocations, victims should try to see things from their perspective by acknowledge the narcissist’s feelings.

This approach can diffuse tension and prevent the situation from escalating—plus, it can often disarm the narcissist, as they’re not getting the reaction they anticipated.

Empathy, however, doesn’t mean tolerating abuse or disrespectful behavior—it’s about maintaining one’s emotional equilibrium and preventing them from drawing people into unnecessary conflicts.

3) Setting firm boundaries

Narcissists often don’t respect personal boundaries as they may see them as challenges to overcome or ignore them entirely to meet their own needs.

However, setting and maintaining clear boundaries is crucial in any relationship, especially with a narcissist.

These boundaries protects one’s self-esteem and prevent the narcissist from exploiting their kindness.

The key is to make the boundaries clear, assertive, and non-negotiable—when a boundary is crossed, the victim should calmly reinforce it without getting drawn into an argument.

Interestingly, studies have shown that when boundaries are consistently enforced, even individuals with narcissistic tendencies can adapt their behavior over time.

4) Practicing self-care

In the midst of handling a relationship with a narcissist, the victim shouldn’t lose sight of their own needs and wellbeing.

Spending time on activities that bring joy, peace and relaxation can provide a necessary respite from the stress of dealing with narcissistic behavior.

Everyone should engage in things they love, whether that’s reading a good book, going for a walk in nature, meditating or spending time with supportive friends and family, as it’s vital for maintaining your mental health and emotional resilience.

It’s okay to seek help—navigating a relationship with a narcissist can be challenging and draining ,and therapists or counsellors can provide valuable insight and coping strategies.

5) Keeping emotions in check

When interacting with a narcissist, it’s important to try and keep one’s emotions under control.

In general, narcissists tend to feed off emotional reactions as it gives them a sense of power and control—anyone who reacts strongly to their provocations is like adding fuel to their fire.

People should try to approach these situations with a cool head, even taking a  few deep breaths if they need to.

It’s perfectly normal to feel upset or angry, but expressing these feelings in a calm and composed way can prevent the narcissist from gaining control over the situation.

6) Staying focused on the facts

One thing narcissists are skilled at is twisting the truth and creating their own narrative—making conversations and arguments with them extremely frustrating.

I remember a time when I was dealing with a narcissist in my life: Whenever we would discuss a contentious issue, they had a way of spinning things around, making it seem as if I was the one in the wrong.

Over time, I found that sticking to the facts was my best defense.

In contrast of getting drawn into their emotional drama, I would calmly and assertively state the facts of the situation—this approach often left them with little room to manipulate or twist the truth.

People should stay grounded in factual reality when dealing with these narcissists.

7) Accepting that they may not change

This is a bitter pill to swallow, but crucial to one’s wellbeing: narcissists rarely change their behavior, and expecting them to do so can set one up for disappointment and heartache.

Waiting for a narcissist to see the error of their ways or hoping they’ll suddenly become empathetic and considerate is often a futile exercise.

This doesn’t mean that everyone has to adjust to tolerate their behavior—far from it—but it simply means accepting the reality of who they are, and making decisions that prioritize one’s mental and emotional health.

8) Remembering one’s worth

At the end of the day, dealing with a narcissist can take a toll on anyone’s self-esteem.

But, remember: Their behavior is a reflection of them, not anyone else’s.

Their victims are not defined by how narcissists treat them or how narcissists make them feel—these unfortunate people have inherent value that goes beyond a narcissist’s acknowledgment or approval.

As people, everyone deserves respect, kindness, and understanding by not letting their negativity make them forget that.

No matter what game a narcissist plays, knowing one’s worth is the most powerful tool in their arsenal.

Conclusion

Navigating a relationship with a narcissist can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that no one is alone in this journey.

This article has provided strategies for managing such relationships, but ultimately, the power to implement them and safeguard emotional well-being lies within each individual.

There is no wasted effort in standing up for oneself and setting boundaries.

Successfully managing interactions with a narcissist doesn’t mean adopting their traits—it reflects wisdom and a commitment to protecting personal peace and mental health.

Here’s to fostering more empowering relationships and embracing a healthier, happier life!