At first, he seemed perfect. He texted me all day, planned dream dates, and told me I was ‘the one’ within weeks. But six months later, I was crying in my therapist’s office, asking, ‘How did I miss the red flags?’”
Narcissists are masters of disguise. They don’t show up wearing a villain’s cape—they show up as your soulmate. By the time you realize what’s happening, you’re already trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and emotional exhaustion.
Here are 10 subtle signs you’re dating a narcissist. Ignore them, and you’ll waste years trying to fix a relationship that was designed to break you.
1. They “Love-Bomb” You Into Oblivion
What it looks like: Over-the-top flattery, constant communication, and rushing commitment (“I’ve never felt this way before!”).
Why it’s toxic: Love-bombing isn’t romance—it’s addiction. They flood you with dopamine hits to hook you before revealing their true self.
- Example: Sarah’s boyfriend sent her 50 roses on week two… but mocked her anxiety three months later.
Why you’ll regret ignoring it: The higher the pedestal, the harder the fall.
2. They Monopolize Every Conversatio
What it looks like: Every story circles back to their achievements, their struggles, their opinions. Ask about their day, and they’ll talk for 30 minutes without once asking, “How was yours?”
Why it’s toxic: Narcissists see relationships as a one-way stage for their monologue.
Why you’ll regret ignoring it: You’ll slowly forget your own voice.
3. They Gaslight You About Your Feelings
What it looks like: “You’re too sensitive,” “You’re overreacting,” or “I was just joking!” when you call out hurtful behavior.
Why it’s toxic: Gaslighting makes you distrust your own reality.
- Example: When Jake forgot their anniversary, he blamed Mia for “expecting too much.”
Why you’ll regret ignoring it: Self-doubt becomes your default setting.
The Dark Truth About Narcissists: Why They Can’t Truly Love Anyone
4. They Isolate You From Friends/Family
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