Narcissists are the most extraordinary individuals in their ability to persuade, manipulate and intimidate others.  Narcissists have such a powerful sense of self entitlement and extreme self confidence that they are very convincing.  They appear to be so genuine if they are high functioning in business, entertainment, sports, medicine, law, etc. Their credentials can be very impressive.  We feel that a person who has achieved a lot in his or her field deserves our respect. After all, they are the expert. Even if a narcissist is not an expert, he is a consummate actor and a great faker. When we become involved with narcissists in business or our personal lives, we begin to recognize how controlling they are. They are dictators and therefore, always right. They bulldoze those who disagree with them, making snide remarks about an individual's ignorance or naiveté.

Some people are so hypnotized by the narcissist that they turn their lives over to him or her. They become a puppet of his needs and desires.  They lead their lives according to the narcissist's script and stage direction. Beyond the footlights is the narcissist's omnipresent adoring audience: clapping on cue, offering bravos at every turn. Many partners of narcissists turn their lives over to them---some with great regret, others without even knowing that they have thrown themselves away.

We encounter narcissists every day, from afar and up close and personal. Learning to identify the signature personality traits of the narcissist---total self absorption, extreme self entitlement, grandiosity, high stakes manipulation, pernicious envy, fits of volcanic rage, exploitation to the max, a complete lack of empathy--will serve you well.  Standing firm on your strong sense of personal integrity, trusting yourself and your perceptions and judgments will always be a guiding force, a touchstone for dealing with narcissistic personalities.  Visit my website:www.thenarcissistinyourlife.com

Linda Martinez-Lewi, Ph.D.
Telephone Consultation
Email:lmlphd@gmail.com