Keep Attracting Narcissists? Here’s Why

Are you tired of falling into the same pattern of dating charismatic but toxic partners? The allure of a confident and charming individual can be hard to resist, but it often leads to a rollercoaster ride of power plays and blame games. So, why do some people seem more prone to attracting these time bomb personalities? In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind this pattern and provide a simple strategy to help you avoid this trap.

The Painful Cycle:
Narcissists possess qualities that society often deems desirable, such as attractiveness and high status. Research even suggests that narcissists tend to be more physically appealing on average. They thrive on admiration and seek partners who will constantly validate their egos. However, what begins as an amazing experience quickly turns into a nightmare. You may find yourself betrayed and questioning your own worth, as friends and others continue to perceive your partner as great.

Why This Happens:
There are two key reasons why you may keep ending up with narcissists.

#1. You’re Too Nice – If you’re someone who easily finds the good in others and constantly showers them with positive affirmations, you’re inadvertently fulfilling their desires. Narcissists are less inclined towards emotional intimacy and seek partners who admire and idolize them.

#2. You’re Vulnerable – Past traumas, negative relationship experiences, attachment styles, and low self-confidence can make you more susceptible to their toxicity. Unfortunately, this vulnerability may lead you to tolerate their behavior and even blame yourself for their actions. Additionally, your kind and nurturing nature may make it difficult for you to see their true colors, as you are inclined to make excuses and believe you can fix them.

You May Be Just Like Them:
Here’s some tough love: it’s possible that you attract narcissists because you possess narcissistic tendencies yourself. Recent research has shown that individuals with high levels of narcissism tend to be in relationships with partners who also exhibit narcissistic traits. On the other hand, those with lower levels of narcissism tend to be with less narcissistic partners. Interestingly, narcissistic women tend to score higher on intelligence tests but overestimate their own intelligence.

Why This Dynamic Occurs:
When you emit narcissistic energy, you are likely to attract similar energy. People are naturally drawn to others who validate and normalize their own behaviors, making them feel less flawed. If you have some narcissistic tendencies, finding someone even more narcissistic than you might alleviate your guilt and provide a sense of reassurance. Moreover, the trophy partner syndrome comes into play, where your intertwined identities reflect positively on you, bolstering your self-image.

A Strategy for Change:
To break free from this cycle, it’s crucial to recognize the neediness behind narcissism. Narcissists constantly crave admiration, attention, and validation. This neediness is unattractive, and instead, you should seek a partner who exudes self-confidence. Consider focusing on traits like kindness, caring, and support. Are they generous with others? Can they be vulnerable? Asking questions that probe their vulnerability can reveal insights into their emotional depth and authenticity.

Signs to Look Out For:
Optimize for different and better qualities in potential partners. Watch out for signs of entitlement, a need for control, constant victimhood, or stories of being treated unfairly. These traits reflect a loser mentality and may indicate toxic patterns. Instead, seek partners who exhibit genuine kindness, humility, and a willingness to be vulnerable.

Conclusion:
Don’t allow yourself to be an easy target for narcissists. Shift your focus from collecting trophies to seeking genuine connection and compatibility. Recognize the neediness inherent in narcissistic personalities and avoid the allure of their charm. Remember, strong individuals attract strong partners, while broken people tend to attract more brokenness. Choose wisely and prioritize healthy relationships built on mutual respect, kindness, and support.

Final Thought:

Remember that self-awareness and self-love are essential as you embark on a journey to find fulfilling and meaningful connections. Embrace your strengths and work towards personal growth, enabling you to attract partners who bring out the best in you.