Narcissists are known for their manipulative and emotionally draining behavior, often using words as their primary tool to maintain control over their victims. In this article, we’ll delve into 25 things narcissists say to keep you around, shedding light on their hidden intentions and the underlying meaning behind these phrases. Understanding these tactics is essential for recognizing and breaking free from toxic relationships.
Dealing with a narcissist can be emotionally exhausting and mentally taxing. They have a knack for using words to manipulate and control their victims, making it challenging to see the truth behind their façade. So buckle up and discover some of the most common phrases narcissists use to keep you trapped in their web of deceit.
Things Narcissists Say To Keep You Around
Narcissists tend to say a lot of weird things and some of them have to do with simply keeping you around in a relationship.
Knowing what these things are is half the battle. So lets get into them:
The Love-Bombing Phase
#1:
“You complete me, and without you, I’m nothing.”
Narcissists often use this line to make you feel indispensable and boost their ego. In reality, they see you as a means to fulfill their emotional needs.
#2:
“I’ve never felt this way about anyone before. You’re my soulmate.”
During the love-bombing phase, they shower you with compliments and affection to establish control. In truth, they’re creating an emotional dependency.
#3:
“I’ll do anything to make you happy, just don’t leave me.”
Narcissists use this as a guilt trip, making you feel responsible for their happiness. It’s a tactic to keep you from leaving.
#4:
“You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
While it may seem like genuine praise, narcissists often say this to manipulate your self-esteem and keep you hooked.
#5:
“I can’t bear the thought of losing you; my life would be empty.”
This statement instills fear and guilt, making it harder for you to consider leaving the relationship.
Guilt-Tripping and Victimhood
#6:
“Why are you abandoning me when I’m at my lowest point?”
Narcissists play the victim card to make you feel responsible for their well-being, even when they’re at fault.
#7:
“You always make everything about you; can’t you see I’m suffering?”
They use this to deflect blame and guilt-trip you for their problems, even if you’ve done nothing wrong.
#8:
“After everything I’ve done for you, you’re going to leave me?”
This is a classic guilt trip, making you question your decision to leave and emphasizing their supposed sacrifices.
#9:
“Nobody will ever love you like I do; you’ll regret leaving.”
By undermining your self-worth, they aim to keep you convinced that you’re lucky to have them.
#10:
“You’re so selfish; you’re breaking my heart.”
Narcissists often play the martyr, making you feel guilty for prioritizing your own needs and happiness.
Gaslighting and Manipulation
#11:
“I never said that; you’re making things up again.”
Gaslighting is a common tactic, making you doubt your memory and sanity.
#12:
“You’re so paranoid; I’m not hiding anything from you.”
They use this to deflect suspicion when they are, in fact, hiding things or being deceitful.
#13:
“You’re just too sensitive; I can’t talk to you about anything.”
This is a way to dismiss your valid concerns and feelings, making you question your emotional reactions.
#14:
“Why are you always trying to twist my words?”
They accuse you of misinterpreting their words, making it challenging for you to express yourself.
#15:
“You’re the one who’s always starting arguments.”
By shifting blame, narcissists avoid taking responsibility for their actions.
Devaluation and Criticism
#16:
“You’re not as attractive as when we first met; maybe you should change.”
They undermine your self-esteem, making you feel inadequate and dependent on their approval.
#17:
“You’re lucky to have someone like me; no one else would tolerate you.”
This is an attempt to isolate you from support systems and convince you that you have no better options.
#18:
“I can’t believe I put up with your flaws for so long.”
They use criticism to break you down and make you more pliable to their demands.
#19:
“You’re so boring and predictable; I need excitement in my life.”
By suggesting you’re dull, they manipulate you into changing to meet their needs.
#20:
“You’re so naive; you need someone like me to guide you.”
Narcissists often try to make you feel dependent on their wisdom and guidance.
Emotional Manipulation
#21:
“If you loved me, you’d do [X] without me asking.”
They use conditional love to control your actions and make you feel obligated.
#22:
“I can’t be happy without you; my life would be meaningless.”
This is a way to manipulate you into staying by threatening their emotional well-being.
#23:
“You’re so selfish for prioritizing your needs over mine.”
They guilt-trip you for setting boundaries and prioritizing your well-being.
#24:
“I sacrificed so much for you, and this is how you repay me?”
Narcissists play the victim by emphasizing their supposed sacrifices.
#25:
“You’re making me miserable by considering leaving.”
This is a final guilt trip aimed at making you feel responsible for their emotional state.
Closing Thoughts
Understanding these manipulative tactics is the first step to breaking free from a narcissistic relationship. If you recognize these phrases and behaviors in your relationship, it’s crucial to seek support and consider leaving for your own emotional well-being. Remember that you deserve a healthy and loving relationship, free from manipulation and control.