The Five Traits of a Narcissist

Have you ever met someone who just couldn't help but talk about themselves? Someone who monopolized every conversation and always had to be the center of attention? Chances are, you were dealt with by a narcissist. Narcissism is a personality disorder that is characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for constant admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. If you're in a relationship with a narcissist, you may be the one constantly walking on eggshells and trying to keep the peace. But what are some of the other red flags that you may be dealing with a narcissistic partner? Read on to find out.

1. They're always right (and they have to tell you about it).

Narcissists truly believe that they are always right, no matter what the situation might be. And not only do they believe it, but they feel the need to let everyone else know it too—even if nobody asked for their opinion in the first place. If you're in a relationship with a narcissist, you've probably had more than your fair share of arguments that were totally one-sided because there was just no budging them from their original stance.

2. They never apologize (and they never forget).

A narcissist will never apologize because in their mind, they've done nothing wrong. Even if they know that they've hurt your feelings or made a mistake, they would rather hold onto their pride than admit that they were wrong and say sorry. And even if by some chance they do apologize, they'll only be doing so because it's in their best interest—not because they actually mean it. As far as forgetting goes, don't count on them to remember your birthday or anniversaries either. In their world, it's all about them—and anything that doesn't revolve around them just doesn't matter.

3. They always need to be the center of attention (no matter who else is around).

Have you ever been out in public with a narcissist and felt like you didn't even exist? Like no matter who else was around or what else was going on, everything just had to revolve around them? That's because narcissists need to be the center of attention at all times—no exceptions. If there's even the slightest chance that somebody might be steal their thunder, they won't hesitate to put a stop to it, often by any means necessary.

4. Their friends are just like them (and anyone who isn't is immediately dismissed).

Narcissists tend to surround themselves with people who are just like them—other narcissists. They work well together because each one feeds into the other's ego and sense of self-importance. But if somebody doesn't fit into that mold or meet their impossibly high standards, then they're immediately seen as inferior and dismissed as unworthy of their time and energy.