Breaking Free: 3 Strategies for Recognizing and Dealing with Covert Narcissists

At some point in time, we have all been in close contact with a covert narcissist. How to know you’re dealing with a covert narcissist? Well, it’s no easy task to point one out, but you sure can recognize a covert narcissist by the weird things they do.In relationship with a covert narcissist, you feel constantly criticized, undermined, and emotionally drained. However, the other person always comes across as the victim. Unlike the bright energy they appear to omit, covert narcissists operate under the radar, leaving you confused and questioning your own perceptions.In this article, I will equip you with the knowledge to recognize the weird things covert narcissists do, and provide strategies for breaking free from their manipulative tactics. We’ll delve into the covert narcissist’s playbook, explore the impact they have on those around them, and offer a roadmap to healing and reclaiming your life. So, let’s get started!

A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing – Covert Narcissist

Covert narcissists are the masters of disguise. They often come across as shy, kind, and even self-deprecating. They crave admiration and validation just like any narcissist, but their methods are far more subtle. Here are some of the weird things covert narcissists do to achieve their goals of deception, and how they affect you:

Weird thing #1: Always needing to be the victim

Covert narcissists love playing the martyr and it is one of the most effective manipulative technqiues they use. They are always seen weaving tales of misfortune to gather sympathy and deflect attention from their own shortcomings. This behavior keeps you focused on their needs, making it difficult to address your own. You feel like they are the best, and most deserving people out there.

Weird thing #2: Compliments that sting

Covert narcissists love giving backhanded compliments. They usually disguise a criticism as a compliment, leaving you feeling confused and unsure of yourself. For example, “You look so great in that dress… have you lost weight?” or “You finally got the first position… it’s quite a big deal for you”

They appreciate you to get into your good books, but they also make sure you know they can do it far more easily than you. This practice not only make them appear to be better than you, but also lowers your confidence level.

Weird thing #3: Jealousy disguised as concern

Covert narcissists excel at playing the jealousy charade. It is one of the most common weird things covert narcissists do. They will always express envy towards your successes, but disguised as genuine concern. For example, “You got that promotion? That must be so stressful for you.”

Weird thing #4: Weaponizing silence

Weird things covert narcissist do include the silent treatment. They are seen withdrawing affection and even communication as punishment, leaving you feeling emotionally abandoned and desperate for their approval. Through this approach, they make you chase them. It really makes them feel wanted and better about themselves.

Weird thing #5: Gaslighting to control

Covert narcissists are known for gaslighting. They simply twist events and deny their actions, making you question your own sanity. This constant undermining erodes your confidence and ability to trust your perceptions. Eventually, you will lose your self – esteem.

Weird thing #6: Needing constant care

One of the weird things covert narcissists do, is portraying themselves as helpless or incapable, manipulating you into taking care of them and neglecting your own needs. They are certified cry babies and attention seekers! This is a big red flag in them.

Weird thing #7: Creating unnecessary drama

Covert narcissists are the masters of triangulation. When you are in a relationship with them, they might introduce a third person into the relationship to create jealousy and insecurity in you.

Being involved with a covert narcissist can have a significant impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Once you observe these signs in a person, you should immediately watch out for yourself and leave.

Breaking Free: Reclaiming Your Life from Weird Things Covert Narcissists Do

If you recognize these patterns in your relationship, it’s time to take steps to protect yourself. Here are some strategies for dealing with covert narcissists:

1.      Educate Yourself

Understanding the dynamics of covert narcissism empowers you to recognize their manipulative tactics and it is one of the most important strategies to deal with narcissists. Resources like books, articles, and therapy can be invaluable. I suggest you learn about “weird things covert narcissists do” and how to counter them. You might want to check out our range for articles specifically designed to deal with this!

2.      Set Boundaries

It’s very important to set healthy boundaries in any relationship, especially in one with a covert narcissist. Learn to say no and prioritize your own needs. Don’t be afraid to limit contact or walk away from the relationship if necessary. Set boundaries to stop weird things covert narcissists do!

3.      Go No Contact (When Weird Things Covert Narcissists Do Become Too Much)

In some cases, complete separation might be the healthiest option. This means cutting off all communication – phone calls, texts, social media – and avoiding situations where you might encounter the narcissist. Here’s how to navigate going no contact:

• Create a Support System: Surround yourself with loving and supportive friends and family who understand your situation. Seek support to be able to counter the weird things covert narcissists do!
• Focus on Healing: Therapy can be a powerful tool to process the emotional abuse and rebuild your self-esteem. Therapy can help heal from the weird things covert narcissists do!

The Road to Recovery After Being a Victim of Weird Things Covert Narcissists Do

Healing from a relationship with a covert narcissist takes time and self-compassion. Here are some strategies for moving forward:

• Prioritize activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This might include exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies you enjoy. Self-care helps counteract the emotional toll of weird things covert narcissists do.
• Reconnect with hobbies and interests you might have neglected during the relationship. This is a chance to explore who you are outside of the narcissist’s influence. Rediscover yourself to break free from the “weird things covert narcissists do.
• Don’t blame yourself for the narcissist’s behavior. You were manipulated, not a bad person. Understanding the manipulative tactics of covert narcissists those weird things they do can help you forgive yourself for falling victim to them.

Remember, you are not alone. Many people have walked the path of recovery from covert narcissistic abuse. By educating yourself about the weird things covert narcissists do and prioritizing your well-being, you can break free from their manipulative web and reclaim your life.

Final Thoughts

Breaking free from a covert narcissist can be challenging, but it is possible. By following these strategies and prioritizing your well-being, you can rebuild your life and thrive. Remember, knowledge is power and these strategies are best tool to use them. By educating yourself about weird things covert narcissists do and their manipulative tactics, you can empower yourself to heal and move forward.

Just be aware of the hoovering effect. Covert narcissists might try to re-enter your life after a period of no contact. Stay strong and resist their attempts to pull you back in. Recognize these attempts as one of the weird things covert narcissists do to regain control. You have got this!