15 Signs Your Partner Is NOT A Narcissist | Expert Relationship Therapist |
“Not Everything Is A Red Flag!”
Wise Words Said By Expert Relationship Therapist.
In recent years, the term “narcissism” has gained immense popularity in the context of relationships. According to a recent study, online searches related to narcissism have increased by 200% in the past five years alone.
The expert relationship therapist at Holistic Living who has been counselling couples for two decades now has observed a growing concern about the impact of narcissistic traits on personal relationships.
Yes, living with a narcissistic partner can pose a serious danger to one’s self-esteem and overall well-being. But it is important to remember that relationships are complex and cannot be viewed through a black-and-white lens.
“Individuals come to me and tell me how they are exhausted of dealing with their partner’s narcissism. When I ask them how exactly they reached the diagnosis, they tell me about the articles they have read on the internet. I am baffled by how the recent generations have started seeing relationships with a magnifying glass. Everything cannot be labeled”
So, if you are someone who is dealing with confusion about whether your partner is a narcissist then this article will help you understand 15 signs that is a clear proof your partner is NOT a narcissist.
These signs are based on thorough research and professional insights of the expert relationship therapist.
Note: If you are plagued with constant doubts about your partner then it is advisable to talk to a trusted family member or friend. You can also seek clarity by taking expert guidance from a certified psychologist.
1. Genuine Empathy
The classic sign of a narcissist is their lack of empathy. The fact that they are highly egocentric makes it difficult for them to take in anybody else’s perspective, says an expert relationship therapist.
On the other hand, a non-narcissistic partner displays genuine empathy toward your emotions. They demonstrate understanding, compassion, and a willingness to offer support in your tough times.
2. Emotional Reciprocity
Narcissist partners are cold-cutting logical. They do not understand emotions like others. They only demonstrate emotions when it helps them to satisfy their ulterior motives. Talking to them may feel like talking to a wall.
So, if your partner is emotionally available and you feel safe enough to express your feelings then sit back and relax because you are not dating a narcissist.
3. Encouragement and Support
A narcissistic partner will be quick to point out your flaws and mistakes. They will intentionally put you down, making you feel inferior about yourself. They use manipulative tactics to try and defer you from your goals and dreams.
“I had a case of narcissist abuse where the husband would not allow the wife to go anywhere on her own. He defended this behavior by saying that he was concerned about her safety and nothing else. The reality was this was just another way to control her and ensure that she stays dependent on him” says an expert relationship therapist.
A non-narcissistic, on the other hand, will actively encourage and support your personal growth, dreams, and aspirations, rather than trying to dominate or belittle you.
4. Respect for Boundaries
A non-narcissist partner understands and respects personal boundaries. They will acknowledge and honor your need for personal space and independence. A narcissist will never be able to do that. They may violate your physical and emotional boundaries because they feel entitled to do so.
“Waking you up in the middle of the night for sex, or just to have ‘the talk’ are some of the disturbing traits of a narcissist,” says an expert relationship therapist.
Active Listening
Does your partner genuinely listen to your perspective without dismissing your views and thoughts? Then, hurray! You have grabbed a good one. Because a narcissistic partner can never see beyond their perspective. They may cut you off while you are talking, or even outright ignore you when you are expressing your feelings.
Shared Decision-Making
In a healthy relationship, partners make decisions together. They equally contribute and consider each other’s opinions and desires. But in the case of a narcissistic relationship, there is only one person holding the power of decision-making. It is their way or highway. Nothing else
Genuine Apologies
“The only time my husband would say sorry is when he knows that I am going to leave,” says Akansha who was stuck in an abusive marriage for 7 years. It was only after talking to the expert relationship therapist she realized the intensity of damage that was already done.
Accepting mistakes can be tough for all of us. However, if we are willing to get past our defenses and show a willingness to learn and grow then that is what makes us well-rounded healthy individuals. Sadly, a narcissist cannot grasp that concept at all. They can never take responsibility for their actions and only know how to play the blame games.
Balanced Attention
A narcissist believes that the world revolves around them. A non-narcissistic partner shows a balanced interest in your life and experiences, sharing conversations and activities that revolve around both of you, rather than solely focusing on themselves.
Emotional Stability
Emotional volatility is a classic trait of a narcissist. With them, you may feel like you are walking on eggshells because it is difficult to predict their moods and reactions.
On the other hand, a non-narcissistic partner exhibits emotional stability and self-awareness. They know how to maintain a healthy balance between their own needs and yours, without consistently seeking excessive validation or attention.
Demonstrated Trustworthiness
Being able to rely and depend on your partner is the key to happy and fulfilling relationships. But with a narcissist, you can hardly experience that. They often engage in big and small lies, manipulate situations, and distort reality.
Therefore, if you feel that your partner is trustworthy and you can easily depend on them then it is a reliving sign that your partner is not a narcissist.
Ability to Handle Criticism
Criticize a narcissist, and all hell will break lose. They will find the lamest excuses to defend their problematic behaviors, warns the expert relationship therapist.
Instead of reacting defensively or taking criticism personally, a non-narcissistic partner is open to feedback. They are willing to reflect on their behavior to promote personal growth and strengthen the relationship.
Supportive of Your Relationships
Does your partner deliberately try to cut you off from your friends and family? Or are they supportive of your social network? If your answer to the latter is yes then good news, your partner is not a narcissist!
They encourage and foster positive relationships between you and your family and friends, recognizing the importance of your broader support network.
Emotional Stability in Conflict
During conflicts, a non-narcissistic partner strives for resolution and compromises, rather than seeking to win at any cost or resorting to manipulation or gaslighting tactics.
Shared Joy and Celebrations
They genuinely celebrate your accomplishments, joys, and successes without feeling threatened or needing to outshine you.
How an Expert Relationship Therapist Can Help
While these signs are indicative of a non-narcissistic partner, it’s crucial to remember that every relationship faces challenges and occasional conflicts. Seeking the guidance of an expert relationship therapist can be immensely beneficial.
Expert Relationship Therapists provide a neutral and safe space for you and your partner to explore your feelings, concerns, and aspirations together. An expert relationship therapist can help you develop effective communication strategies, navigate complex emotions, and identify and address any potential issues before they escalate.
In conclusion, relationships are multi-dimensional, and it’s essential to approach them with a nuanced understanding. By recognizing these 15 signs, you can gain insight into the health of your relationship and differentiate between healthy behaviors and narcissistic tendencies.
Remember, an expert relationship therapist can serve as a valuable resource, offering guidance and support as you and your partner embark on a journey of mutual growth, understanding, and love.
Take a 10-minute Free Consultation with Expert Relationship Therapist Now!
Talk to an expert marriage counselor @ Holistic Living, Chembur, Mumbai, India, Dubai, and London. Call/WhatsApp 9321447981 to book online marriage counseling and start building a peaceful and happy marriage.
