The weirdest narcissistic texting habit
Imagine waking up every morning to a notification on your phone that makes you feel happy and excited. But as days turn into months, that same notification makes your heart race with fear and anxiety.
This is the reality of starting a relationship with a narcissist, especially when it comes to their confusing and manipulative texting habits.
Let's talk about it.
Narcissists have a toxic habit of using something as simple as texting as a tool for control and influence over anyone they are dating or, should we say, interested in destroying? At first, during the love bombing phase, they shower you with messages. It's non-stop, and feels like you've found the perfect match.
You're sharing your deepest thoughts and confessing love, and you seem to have everything in common. You may even go as far as saying you’ve found your “soulmate.”
It's intense, euphoric, and makes you feel exceptional.
But for narcissists, this overwhelming attention is a calculated move. Once they’ve got you hooked and the relationship progresses, things start to change. The narcissists begin to impose rules: for example, you must reply instantly.
Miss a text, and you're accused of not caring, unfaithful, or even cheating. That once delightful notification now sends a wave of fear through you because you know a delayed response could lead to an argument.
Beware.
This is a red flag.
Now, if you have an anxious attachment style, the narcissist will exploit this even further.
They know their sudden withdrawal from constant communication can confuse you and make you feel insecure or desperate for their attention.
You start questioning yourself: "Did I do something wrong?" "How can I make things right?"
You'll start bending over backward to win back their affection, doing more and more for them while they put in little to no effort.
This leaves you feeling helpless. This is when you really need to seek help and call them out on their toxic and manipulative behavior. Don’t fall for their games. Narcissists keep their victims stuck on them by creating an emotional rollercoaster; they act cold today, they act warm tomorrow. Just when you’re ready to give up, they’ll throw you a lifeline—a heartfelt conversation, sweet message, or a kind gesture—to reel you back in. Just enough to keep you hopeful and engaged. This unpredictable behavior is designed to keep you hooked even when they have no intentions of being committed.
These manipulative games are not worth your time or your sanity.
Focus on yourself. And be intentional about it.
In fact, be strict about it. Remember who you were before they came into your life.
Fall in love with yourself again. Fill your days with activities and hobbies that actually make you happy or fulfilled. When you're busy and fulfilled, you won’t get caught up in their manipulative habits. Remember, a healthy relationship doesn’t make you feel anxious, undervalued, or constantly on edge.
You deserve a mature relationship with someone who respects and loves you genuinely, without the need for mind games.
Mind games are for children. The unserious. And immature.
Final words
Dealing with a narcissist can be exhausting. They’ll do anything to stay in control and influence you, but remember, you have the power to choose how you deal with them.
If you find yourself entangled in this toxic narcissistic cycle, you really need to prioritize your well-being. The longer you fail to do that, the more difficult it becomes to heal from the trauma.
There’s a vast world out there, full of opportunities and experiences that doesn’t revolve around the narcissist.
Let this be a strong reminder for you to take back control of your life. Don’t let anyone’s manipulative behavior dictate your happiness.
Keep your emotions in check, and stop giving them the satisfaction of a reaction.
Focus on what’s best for you and stay resilient.
Narcissists often move on to easier targets when they see they can’t get to you anymore.
If you’re going through this, your mental health matters. Seek professional support or discuss with someone you can trust. And ultimately, keep your focus on your own well-being. Never lose sight of your self-worth.