• The first stage of leaving a narcissist is recognizing the abuse and understanding that it’s not normal. You know what they say, “the first step to solving a problem is admitting you have one.” Once you realize that your partner isn’t just quirky or demanding but actually abusive, you’re on the right track.
• Next, the victim may experience intense emotions such as anger, sadness, or guilt. It’s like an emotional rollercoaster – except instead of loops and drops, there are tears and existential crises. But don’t worry! These feelings are completely valid and necessary for healing.
• In order to leave a narcissist safely, victims should create a safety plan and seek support from trusted friends or family members. Think of it as Mission: Get Outta Dodge (or wherever your abuser lives). Make sure to pack essentials like important documents, clothes etc., let someone reliable know where you’re going so they can help if needed.
• Cutting off contact with the narcissist can be difficult but necessary for healing and moving on. Like ripping off a bandaid…but over several weeks/months/years? Just remember why you left in the first place!
• During this time, victims may also need to work through feelings of codependency and learn healthy boundaries in relationships. Let’s face it – we all want love & affection from our partners but sometimes at any cost which leads us into toxic relationships. Learning how to set healthy boundaries will go miles in making sure future relationships aren’t draining ones.
• It’s common for the narcissist to try to manipulate or hoover their victim back into the relationship during this stage. Ah yes….the good old Hoover move by your ex-partner; trying every trick up their sleeve – apologies followed by gaslighting followed by more apologies until finally realizing nothing works anymore..Buh-bye Felicia!
• Victims should stay vigilant and remind themselves why they left in the first place. It’s like a mantra – “I deserve better than this” or “My ex is not worth my time”. Keep repeating it until it sticks!
• As time goes on, survivors will begin to heal and rebuild their self-esteem while learning how to trust again. You’ll be able to look back at your past relationship with clarity and see that you were never the problem! In fact, you’re pretty awesome (not biased).
• Finally, reaching out for therapy or counseling can help individuals fully process their experiences and move forward with confidence. Talk about going from zero-to-hero! With professional support & guidance, victims are empowered to take control of their lives once more.
• The process of leaving a narcissist can be long and difficult but it’s important for victims to remember that they deserve better. Ain’t nobody got time for toxic relationships…life is too short!
• It’s common for victims to feel guilty or responsible for the abuse, but this is not true – the responsibility lies solely with the abuser. Just because someone says something doesn’t make it true; likewise just because a narcissistic partner said its your fault doesn’t mean anything.
• In some cases, leaving a narcissist may involve legal action such as obtaining a restraining order or pressing charges. If things get really bad then don’t hesitate in taking legal recourse against them.
• During the initial stage of leaving, victims may experience physical symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, or headaches due to stress. Who needs caffeine when you’ve got stress-induced migraines? But seriously though..take care of yourself during these times by getting enough sleep & drinking lots of water.
• As time goes on and healing begins,survivors may find themselves feeling more empowered and confident in their abilityto make healthy decisions.Like Neo discovering his powers in Matrix,you’ll start realizing what all amazing qualitiesyou have which makes making healthy decisions easier.
• Leaving a narcissistic relationship often involves rebuilding one’s support system outside of the abusive partner. Now you can focus on making new friends and reconnecting with old ones! Bonus: no more awkward double dates!
• Victims should also take care to protect their privacy during this time by changing passwords and limiting social media presence if necessary. Because we all know how our exes love stalking us online, don’t give them that satisfaction!
• It’s important for those leaving a narcissist to prioritize self-care practices such as exercise, meditation or therapy sessions. You’re not just taking care of your body but also your mind & soul; it doesn’t get any better than that!
• Ultimately, successfully leaving a narcissistic relationship requires strength and perseverance – but it is possible! And once you’ve done it,you’ll realize what an amazing personyou are who has gone through so muchbut still managedto come out strong at other end
P.S. You should check out these leaving narcissist books at Amazon. (affiliate link)