2. When people are forced to co-parent with someone who has
narcissistic traits, they often feel defeated or they might wonder why
they’re fighting in the first place.
The answer is simple - your children need you.
If you take on this battle, your children will reap the benefits because you will
be a more “present” parent, one who is stronger and has higher self-esteem
as they teach their children how to handle difficult situations with grace.
You CAN do this, and we are here to help.
Introduction
Let’s begin!
3. Signs of a Narcissist
Lack of Empathy - they are
unable to relate to you or your
children. It oftentimes seems
as though they simply do not
care about your feelings or how
their actions affect others.
Manipulation- they will do and
say whatever necessary to
paint themselves in the best
light possible. Gaslighting is
normal in interactions.
Sense of Entitlement - they
believe they deserve
everything under the sun and
then some, even if they didn’t
work for any of it.
4. Signs of a Narcissist
Arrogance- they consistently
talk about themselves and
how great they are or how
good their life is, all while
simultaneously belittling
those around them and their
accomplishments.
Exploitation- they will use and
abuse kindness to their
advantage; but, when the
relationship no longer suits
them, they treat people as if
they do not matter at all.
(Continued)
5. Tips for Dealing
with a Narcissist
Compromising with a person who
has narcissistic tendencies can
seem impossible - but it’s not!
Remember, the calm mind
prevails. Remain reasonable, and
do not allow your emotions to
control your decision-making.
The best way to “win” against a
manipulator is to be smarter!
Make them believe the
compromise was their idea, even
if it wasn’t.
6. Ways to Handle Questions
from Children
Your kids are smart, and they will recognize
the other parent’s behavior. The older they
get, the more they will be affected.
Validate your children’s feelings, but never
speak poorly of your co-parent.
Do not speak down to them, but also do not
tell them information that should be discussed
privately between you and your co-parent.
As they grow older, teach your children the
same techniques you have learned to deal with
someone with a narcissistic personality.
7. Is it Safe for Them?
In general, a difficult parent can
be very stressful for your
children…
Try to remember that having one
stable parent is going to have a
positive impact on your children.
Provide your children with
consistency in their routine.
Love them unconditionally and
give them a safe space to come
and vent if they need to.
If you ever have concerns about your
children’s mental or physical health and
wellbeing, consult with your attorney
immediately to discuss your options to keep
them safe!
8. Look Within Yourself
Strength lies within. We must first
address our weaknesses and learn
from them how to be better.
Transform your way of thinking;
start by saying “I can” instead of “I
might.”
Your children are looking to you for
guidance - be strong for them.
9. Trust Your
Support System
No one can navigate life
alone. We are social beings,
and we need to be able to
vent our frustrations and ask
for help when we are stuck.
Here’s a few ideas of who to
rely upon:
- Parents
- Siblings
- Close Friends
- Neighbors
- A Therapist
- An Attorney
10. Set Boundaries…
and Enforce Them
You decide what is best for
you and your circle, not your
ex-partner.
Do you need to set time limits
on communication? Are there
certain words you will simply
not tolerate?
Do certain behaviors disrupt
your routine? Might it be best
to only communicate via
writing?
Decide what YOU need and
enforce boundaries to protect
your peace.
11. Put on a Show!
The less exposure your children
have to your ex’s wrath, the better.
It’s your job to shield them and
protect them from knowing how
the situation may be affecting you.
Think of co-parenting as an acting
exercise, one that challenges you to
put forth your best efforts to be the
bigger person, always.
12. Compromise is Key
Compromising with a person who
has narcissistic tendencies can
seem impossible - but it’s not!
Remember, the calm mind
prevails. Remain reasonable, and
do not allow your emotions to
control your decision-making.
The best way to “win” against a
manipulator is to be smarter!
Make them believe the
compromise was their idea, even
if it wasn’t.
