Although relationships are varied and complex, there is a particularly strong dynamic that exists between narcissists and empaths. These two personality types are like to two sides of a coin; they are destined to conflict despite being magnetically drawn to one another. These are the seven stages of an empath-narcissist relationship, from their first meeting to their long-awaited release, in a relationship that is bound to end.
Nervous versus sympathetic
Prior to delving into the phases of these partnerships, let’s examine the differences between narcissists and empaths. A narcissist is someone who lacks empathy, has an excessive feeling of self-importance, and craves praise and attention. They may exhibit aggressive behaviour in addition to being cunning and domineering in relationships.
Conversely,
The Seven Phases Of A Narcissist And Empath’s Relationship
Although these partnerships frequently get off to a good start, this is mostly because the empath is unaware that they are dating a narcissist. After that, they would experience many phases of their relationship before ultimately escaping their partner’s control. An empath may take years to emerge from this nonlinear process, which can recur again.
Phase 1: Initial Consultation
It is common for the narcissist and empath to unintentionally come together at this point. The narcissist’s captivating attributes captivate the empath due to their loving and compassionate disposition. Narcissists, on the other hand, perceive a chance to satisfy their desire for approval and power. From the beginning, a strong bond is established, laying the groundwork for future developments.
Step 2: Assuming Command
The narcissist starts to show their dominance as the relationship goes on. Through subtle manipulation, they take over the empath’s life, isolating them from loved ones, making decisions on their behalf, and creating a dependency. Motivated by their desire to assist and heal, the empath gets caught up in the narcissist’s web without realising that they are being manipulated.
Step 3: Lies and Gaslighting
At this point, the narcissist starts to show his true colours. They use strategies like gaslighting, which is the distortion of reality to cause the empath to question their own sense of reality and sanity. Because of their innate capacity for empathy and drive to discover the positive in people, empaths often find themselves doubting their own experiences. They get caught up in a confusing, self-defeating maze.
Step4: The Initial Diversion
The empath eventually begins to see how toxic the relationship is. They might try to set limits or confront the narcissist about their actions. The narcissist will respond to this by getting upset, manipulating others, or downplaying their worries. For the empath, this first break is a critical turning moment when they start to see how much adjustment and reflection are necessary.
Step 5: The Request and Comeback
At this point, the narcissist could use desperate methods, including pleading for forgiveness or making promises of change, in an effort to retake control over the empath. Despite their better judgement, the empath may be persuaded to return to the relationship because they are even hopeful and open to second chances. The empath may become stuck in a tiresome and repetitive loop as a result of this break and reunion cycle repeating itself several times.
Step 6: The Last Pause
The empath becomes stronger and more clear-headed until they are unable to endure the poisonous relationship any longer. They are aware of the harm it has done to their mental and physical wellbeing. The empath needs to find the strength at this point to permanently cut their relationship with the narcissist and release themselves from the bonds that have held them back for so long.
Phase 7: The Emancipation
The last phase symbolises the empath’s path to emancipation. It’s a time of recovery, introspection, and reconstruction. The empath starts to take back who they are, find their abilities again, and set appropriate boundaries. They discover how to keep their distance from unhealthy partnerships and encircle themselves with wholesome influences and sincere interactions. Over time, the empath becomes more resilient, smarter, and stronger than before.
Ways to Identify a Narcissist
It’s critical to know how to spot a narcissist in order to stay out of relationships with them. There is more to this person than just a large ego. The pathological demand for attention and approval is seen in narcissists. They lack empathy and regret, are frequently deceptive and self-centered, and are jealous of others. Even in situations where there is no rivalry or risk of losing, narcissists are fierce competitors. Typical characteristics of a genuine narcissist include
They take criticism personally since they are highly sensitive to it.
They overstate their accomplishments and abilities and have an ostentatious feeling of self-importance. Additionally, when they are not experts in numerous fields, they may make this claim.
The dreams of success, power, brilliance, beauty, or romance consume narcissists. They think they have a unique quality that makes them stand out from the crowd.
They are completely devoid of empathy or regret for other people’s emotions.
Get Out of a Narcissistic Relationship If You’re in One
There are many intricate and challenging dynamics in the relationship between a narcissist and an empath, which can be challenging to manage. Both empaths and people who find themselves involved with narcissists might benefit from clarity and understanding that can be gained from comprehending the seven stages of this interaction. The first step to escaping this destructive cycle and achieving the rightful freedom and happiness is becoming aware of your situation.