Gossip is an unconstrained and often derogatory conversation about other people and can involve betraying confidence and spreading sensitive information or hurtful judgments.
Research shows that people who gossip the most have very high levels of anxiety. They are generally not particularly popular because they cannot be trusted. Spreading private information or negative judgments is painful to others and reflects poorly on the gossiper.
Why Do People Gossip?
To feel superior
People who don’t feel good about themselves temporarily feel better when they judge others negatively.
Out of boredom
When people can’t generate interesting discussions based on knowledge or ideas, gossip can arouse people’s interest.
Out of envy
People gossip in order to hurt those whose popularity, talents, or lifestyle they envy.
To feel like part of the group
People gossip to feel as though they belong to the group. Yet, when acceptance is based on being “in on a secret,” it is not based on a person’s identity, but on exclusion or maliciousness.
For attention
A person gets to be the center of attention temporarily while divulging a piece of gossip. Yet, spreading gossip or rumors is like buying attention; it’s temporary and has little foundation.
Out of anger or unhappiness
A person can derive a sense of retribution with disparaging remarks.
Is It Always Wrong to Talk About Others?
Most people have a natural curiosity about what’s going on among people in the community. Some of the best books are biographies that tell the life stories of other people. However, the best biographies give the reader an understanding of the nuance and complexity of the person’s character through facts. They are not based on one-sided, offensive judgments of the person.
The key is to look at one’s intent in discussing other people and relationships.
Is the intent to understand human nature and improve one’s quality of life and relationships?
Or: Is the intent to temporarily feel superior or get attention by disparaging others?
Responses to Unwelcome Gossip:
Let’s suppose that somebody is gossiping mercilessly about Jane. It’s important not to feed the gossiper with curiosity, agreement and further questions. It’s best to simply change the subject. Here are some other possible responses:
“I notice that you talk about Jane a lot. I’m curious why she interests you so much?”
“Let’s take a look at it from Jane’s side.”
“I am more interested in what you are up to.”
“Let’s talk about something more positive or decide what we’re going to do this afternoon.”
“I feel uncomfortable listening to negative judgments about people unless we figure out how to help them.”
Conclusion
Gossiping shows others the gossiper’s insecurity and meanspiritedness. It also leaves everyone involved feeling as though they’ve just eaten a bad apple. Ultimately, insight into the intricacies of human relations and behavior is more interesting, uplifting, and enlightening than one-dimensional judgments and rumors.
Ghosting, simmering, and icing are colloquial terms that describe the practice of suddenly ending all communication, avoiding contact with another person without any apparent warning or explanation, and ignoring any subsequent attempts to communicate.
“When a person is ghosted, even if they try to reach out to the other person to either reconnect or receive closure, they are typically met with silence.”
Source: Navarro R, Larrañaga E, Yubero S, Víllora B. Psychological Correlates of Ghosting and Breadcrumbing Experiences: A Preliminary Study among Adults. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020;17(3):1116. doi:10.3390/ijerph1
As you can see, it’s called ghosting because it involves someone essentially “vanishing” into thin air as if they were a ghost.
The term “ghosting” typically refers to a romantic relationship where contact unexpectedly ceases, but it can also apply to friendships and family relationships.
Signs of Ghosting
Ghosting is often apparent, but it can also be a gradual process. The other person might start by ‘soft ghosting,’ where they progressively minimize contact over some time. Some early signs that someone might be ghosting you include:
“They frequently cancel plans to hang out, have a hard time committing, avoid sharing personal details, don’t want you to meet their loved ones, disappear from social media, seldom reply to your texts or calls, and their conversations lack depth, making them seem uninterested.”
Ghosting is a trait that can also happen on social media platforms. It refers to the act of cutting off all social media contact with another person without offering an explanation. This may involve unfriending, unfollowing, or even blocking the person on all social media platforms. In some instances, the person may even go as far as deactivating or deleting their social media accounts to prevent any form of contact
Though a new term, ghosting existed well before the digital age. “I think references of ‘going for a loaf of bread and never coming back’ are examples of ghosting,” says Bree Jenkins, LMFT, a dating coach in Los Angeles, Calif. “Ghosting used to be leaving a person and moving away or not leaving [them with] your contact information—its earlier origins are even the simple act of leaving a party or social gathering without notice and goodbyes.”
Why Do Some People Choose to Ghost?
Ghosting is often viewed as an immature or passive-aggressive way to end a relationship, and in some cases, it may even constitute emotional abuse.
There are two primary reasons why a person ghosts another, and often it’s a combination of the two.
It’s the Easy Route
The first reason why some people choose to ghost others is that they find it easier to avoid uncomfortable conversations about ending the relationship.
The person doing the ghosting often wants to avoid confrontation or dealing with someone else’s hurt feelings, so they simply cease all communication and hope the hint is delivered.
Option Overload and Fatigue
“Margaret Seide, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist based in New York City, explains that with internet dating, there are seemingly infinite choices as opposed to walking into a bar with limited options. Due to the large number of choices, online daters tend to quickly move on to the next potential match with an “OK, next” or “Yeah, but what else?” mindset. Although the person they are interacting with may be nice, they may not make the cut due to the fact that they are juggling multiple other people.
There are various reasons why people ghost, including fear of the other person’s reaction to rejection.
When faced with someone that resists your boundaries, these strategies may help.
Good mental health requires boundaries—setting limits on what we do for others, and how much we’ll allow them to disrespect us.
“Boundary-pushing” can involve ignoring or testing our boundaries, and trying to manipulate us into relaxing our boundaries.
There are ways to uphold a boundary with little drama, even when facing a tenacious boundary pusher.
Setting boundaries with others is an important life skill. Sometimes we need to set limits on what we’re willing to do for someone else, or how much we’re willing to let someone takes advantage of us or mistreat us. A lack of healthy boundaries can harm our emotional, psychological, physical, or financial health and negatively impact our other relationships. Without good boundaries, we can enable unacceptable behavior by rewarding it.
Despite healthy boundary benefits, some of us have a troubled relationship with personal boundary-setting because we:
Feel guilty about how our boundaries will affect others.
Feel selfish because we believe “good” people should sacrifice for others.
Are empathic and want to relieve other peoples’ suffering.
Are “people-pleasers” that want everyone to like us.
Have low self-esteem and don’t think that what we want or need is as important as what others want or need.
Don’t know how to effectively advocate for ourselves.
If you’re like me, having healthy boundaries took emotional work and practice, motivated by experiencing some of the costs I outlined earlier. I’m happy to report that I’m better at having healthy boundaries and most people accept my boundaries without conflict. But that’s not to say it’s easy, especially when I encounter the dreaded “boundary pusher.”
Boundary Pushers and the Things They Do
Boundary pushers come in a variety of forms and may be narcissistic, immature, entitled, selfish, privileged, desperate, clueless, or some combination. They want what they want, our boundaries be damned. They do things like:
Flat out ignore our boundary.
Test us to see if we mean it.
Argue with our reasons for the boundary.
Repeatedly request or expect unjustified rule-bending that’s unfair to others.
Try to manipulate us into relaxing our boundary. They act like we’re unreasonable or mean and exaggerate their plight. They say things like, “It’s just this one time, I’ll never ask again.” If it’s unfair to others, they promise not to tell. They try to wear us down by asking repeatedly even after we’ve said “no.”
Countering Boundary Pushers
There’s a difference between boundary-pushing and legitimate requests for relaxing our boundaries. Sometimes there are extenuating circumstances. Compassionate people consider whether the situation calls for bending their boundaries. Likewise, wise people consider whether the benefits of asserting their boundaries are worth the potential costs. Some boundaries are more important than others.
If you conclude your boundary is worth standing up for, remind the “offender” of the boundary using a confident, well-modulated, matter-of-fact tone of voice. You might, very briefly, restate why you’re committed to the boundary if you think it will help, but keep it simple. Don’t over-explain. Then, change the subject or leave the situation. If your resolve is tested by a tenacious boundary pusher fruitless.
Feeling burned out can leave you drained, unmotivated, and overwhelmed — even when you’re doing your best to keep up. Many people experience burnout when daily demands exceed available energy for too long without enough rest or balance.
The good news is that resetting your energy doesn’t require drastic changes. Small, intentional self-help practices can restore balance, improve focus, and support everyday wellness over time.
What Does Burnout Feel Like?
Burnout often shows up as:
Persistent low energy
Difficulty focusing
Emotional exhaustion
Feeling overwhelmed by simple tasks
Rather than a personal failure, burnout is often a signal to slow down and adjust routines in supportive ways.
1. Slow Down to Reset Your Energy
One of the fastest ways to reset your energy is to pause intentionally. Brief moments of stillness help calm the nervous system and restore clarity.
Simple reset practices:
Take 3–5 slow breaths before starting a task
Pause for one minute between activities
Sit quietly without screens for a few moments
Research shows that mindfulness-based pauses can reduce stress and support emotional balance .
2. Use Gentle Movement to Reduce Fatigue
Movement doesn’t need to be intense to improve energy. Gentle activities such as walking, stretching, or yoga can reduce tension and improve circulation.
Benefits of gentle movement include:
Improved mood
Reduced physical stiffness
Increased mental clarity
Even short walks or light stretching can help relieve burnout-related fatigue.
3. Support Energy with Better Sleep Habits
Sleep plays a significant role in restoring energy levels. Creating a consistent bedtime routine helps regulate your body’s natural rhythms.
Energy-supporting sleep habits:
Go to bed and wake up at the same time
Reduce screen use before bedtime
Create a calming nighttime ritual
Healthy sleep routines support daily energy and emotional resilience .
4. Fuel Your Body for Steady Energy
Low energy is often linked to inconsistent nourishment. Eating balanced meals and staying hydrated can stabilize energy throughout the day.
Simple nutrition tips:
Drink water regularly
Choose whole foods when possible
Include protein and fiber to avoid energy crashes
Balanced nutrition supports both physical and emotional well-being .
5. Reduce Overwhelm with Boundaries and Routine
Burnout often comes from doing too much without enough structure or rest. Creating gentle boundaries protects your time and energy.
Examples include:
Limiting after-hours work notifications
Scheduling short breaks during the day
Simplifying your daily task list
Research shows that routines and boundaries can reduce overwhelm and support sustainable energy levels .
6. Reconnect with Joyful Activities
Burnout narrows focus to responsibilities only. Reintroducing small moments of joy helps restore emotional energy.
Joy-supporting activities include:
Listening to music
Spending time outdoors
Creative hobbies
Connecting with loved ones
Engaging in enjoyable activities improves overall well-being and motivation .
7. Reflect and Adjust Gently
Burnout is often a sign that something needs adjustment. Reflection helps you notice what drains your energy — and what restores it.
Reflection questions:
What is one small change I can make this week?
What activities energize me most?
What drains my energy consistently?
Feeling burned out often means your energy has been stretched too thin for too long. Small changes like rest, routine, gentle movement, and boundaries can help reset energy and restore balance.
Conclusion
Feeling burned out doesn’t mean something is wrong with you — it often means something in your routine needs support. By slowing down, nourishing your body, and creating gentle boundaries, you can begin restoring energy in a sustainable way.
Small steps taken consistently can make a meaningful difference.
Disclaimer
Fitness Hacks For Life provides self-help and educational content for wellness and personal growth. This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical or mental health care.
“Navigating Toxic Family Dynamics with Grace & Boundaries”
🎄
Ready to test your boundary skills?
The holidays can be a minefield when dealing with toxic family members. This quiz presents 5 common scenarios. Choose how you’d react to see your “Boundary Style.”
Question 1 of 5
Your Boundary Style:
✨ Quick Pro-Tip for You:
This quiz is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice.
This time of the year brings a lot of changes to the usual day-to-day life of hundreds of millions of people: The weather is colder, trees are naked, snowy days become plentiful and friendly critters are less visible around the neighborhood. Especially in the Western Hemisphere, this time of the year is also linked to a lot of joyous celebrations and traditions. Most children and many adults have been excited for this time of the year to come for months, and they love the aura of celebrations, with their gatherings, gifts, cookies, emails and cards.
Alas, there are also millions who have to deal with darker emotions as the world literally darkens around them.
The holiday blues – that feeling of being in a lower or more anxious mood amid the significant change in our environment and the multitude of stressors that the holidays can bring – is a phenomenon that is yet to be thoroughly researched. However, as academic psychiatrists and neuroscience researchers, we have seen how several factors contribute to this experience.
Why feel blue in the red and green season?
There are many reasons to feel stressed or even downright overwhelmed during this time of year, in addition to the expectations set around us.
Memories of holidays past, either fond or sad, can create a sense of loss this time of year. We may find ourselves missing people who are no longer with us, and carrying on the same traditions without them can be a strong reminder of their absence.
The sense of burden or obligation, both socially or financially, can be significant. We can get caught up in the commercial aspects of gift giving, wanting to find that perfect item for family and friends. Many set their sights on special gifts, and we often can feel stretched thin trying to find a balance between making our loved ones happy and keeping our bank accounts from being in the black.
It’s also a time for gathering with those close to us, which can stir up many emotions, both good and bad. Some may find themselves away from or without close connections and end up isolated and withdrawn, further disconnected from others. On the other hand, many people find themselves feeling overwhelmed by the combination of potlucks and Secret Santas stacking up through multiple invitations, be it at school, work, or from friends and family – leaving us with the difficult position of not wanting to disappoint others, while not getting totally depleted by all the constant socializing.
Great expectations
People often feel disappointed when reality does not meet expectations. The larger the mismatch, the worse the negative feelings. One of us (Arash) often finds himself telling his patients: Childhood fairy tales can set an unrealistic bar in our minds about life. I wish we were told more real stories, taking the bad with the good, as we would get hurt less when faced with difficult realities of life, and learn how to especially appreciate our good fortunes.
These days viewers are showered with Christmas and New Year’s Eve movies, almost all of which sound and feel like fairy tales. People get married, get rich, fall in love or reconnect with their loved ones. Even unhappy events within “A Christmas Carol” conclude with a happy ending. These all, besides exposure to only happy moments and beautiful gifts (courtesy of Santa), dazzling Christmas decorations, and picturesque family scenes on social media, often set an unrealistic expectation for how this time of the year “should” feel.
Reality is different, though, and at its best is not always as colorful. There may be disagreements about hows, wheres, whats and whos of the celebration, and not all family members, friends and relatives get along well at parties. And as we feel lonelier, we may find ourselves spending more time immersed in TV and social media, leading to more exposure to unrealistic views of the holidays and feeling all the worse about our situation.
When is blue a red flag?
While many experience the more transient “holiday blues” this time of year, it is important not to miss more serious conditions like seasonal mood changes, which in its most severe case leads to clinical depression, including Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD consists of episodes of depression or a worsening of existing depression during the late fall and early winter. The person may feel depressed and hopeless, or they may find it difficult to focus, sleep, or be motivated – they can even feel suicidal. As our emotions can color our thoughts and memories, a depressed person may remember more negative memories, have a more negative perception and interpretation of the events, and feel upset about the holidays.
In such cases, the sadness is “coincident” with the holidays and not caused solely by its circumstances. It is important to seek professional help with SAD, as we have effective treatments available, such as medications and light therapy.
What to do to minimize the blues?
Set realistic expectations: One readily available strategy is simply reframing the beliefs we have about what the holidays “should” be like. Not all parties will go perfectly. Some decorations may break, or kids may wake up grumpy or not be exhilarated by their gifts – but it doesn’t have to stop us from enjoying all the good moments.
Set firm boundaries: Too many invitations to social events? Too many financial demands? Set clear limits about what you are able and willing to do, whether that means declining some social events and setting your own limit on spending this year, focusing more on meaningful experiences over expense. This can be spending time with loved ones or getting creative with homemade gifts.
Feeling alone? There are many ways to steer clear of isolating this time of year. Reaching out to friends, volunteering at animal shelters, local charities or attending community meetups or religious events can be a great way to stay connected while also bringing happiness to ourselves and others.
Making new memories: Starting a new tradition, either solo or with loved ones, can help create fond new memories of the holidays, no longer overshadowed by the past.
Take care of yourself: It’s important to remember the value of self-care, including eating and drinking in moderation (as alcohol can worsen a depressed mood), exercising (even a short walk), and treating yourself this holiday season by doing something you enjoy.
While the holiday blues are most often temporary, it’s important to identify when things have crossed over into clinical depression, which is more severe and longer lasting. It also impairs daily functioning. For these symptoms it is often helpful and necessary to seek professional help. This can consist of counseling or use of medications, or both, to help treat symptoms.
Linda Saab, M.D. is a psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Wayne State University Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences. She completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Michigan. As a clinical educator, she is especially interested in training resident physicians. In her clinical work, she uses pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and promoting healthy lifestyle habits. She treats all mental illness, with a special interest in anxiety and trauma related disorders.
Arash Javanbakht, M.D., is the director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC; https://www.starclab.org) at Wayne State University. Dr Javanbakht and his work have been featured on the National Geographic, The Atlantic, CNN, Aljazeera, NPR, Washington Post, Smithsonian, PBS, American Psychiatric Association, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and tens of other media.
In today’s age of self-help and personal growth, therapy speaks become ubiquitous in our daily conversations. From “setting boundaries” to “self-care,” these buzzwords have permeated our language and culture. While the intention behind using these terms is to promote mental well-being and improve our relationships, some experts argue that therapy speak is doing more harm than good. They suggest that the excessive focus on individualism and self-improvement has made us self-centered and oblivious to the needs of others. In this article, we explore the question: is therapy speaking making us selfish?
Adverse effects of being selfish
Focusing too much on oneself can lead to self-centered behavior that can negatively affect an individual’s relationships and overall well-being. Here are eight ways that people can become selfish after focusing too much on themselves:
Lack of empathy
When individuals are too focused on their own needs and desires, they may struggle to empathize with others and understand their perspectives.
Disregard for others’ needs
People who are too self-focused may prioritize their own needs over those of others, leading to a lack of consideration for others’ feelings and desires.
Difficulty in forming and maintaining relationships
Self-centered behavior can lead to a lack of interest in forming and maintaining meaningful relationships with others, as people may struggle to see beyond their own needs.
Narcissistic tendencies
Focusing too much on oneself can contribute to developing narcissistic tendencies, characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a lack of concern for others.
Lack of accountability
Self-centered individuals may struggle to take responsibility for their actions and behaviors, instead shifting blame onto others or refusing to acknowledge their role in adverse situations.
Inability to compromise
When individuals are too focused on their needs, they may struggle to compromise or consider others’ perspectives, leading to conflict in relationships and a lack of cooperation.
Entitlement
Focusing too much on oneself can contribute to a sense of entitlement, where individuals feel that they deserve special treatment or privileges without regard for the needs and desires of others.
Lack of gratitude
Self-centered individuals may struggle to appreciate the efforts and contributions of others, leading to a lack of gratitude and appreciation for the support they receive.
5 Reasons why focusing too much on yourself can leave you self-centered
Focusing too much on oneself can lead to self-centered behavior that can negatively affect an individual’s relationships and overall well-being. Here are five reasons why focusing too much on yourself can make you selfish:
Lack of empathy
When individuals are too focused on their needs and desires, they may struggle to empathize with others and understand their perspectives. This can make it difficult for them to connect with others and build meaningful relationships.
Inability to compromise
When individuals are too focused on their needs, they may struggle to compromise or consider others’ perspectives. This can lead to conflict in relationships and a lack of cooperation.
Entitlement
Focusing too much on oneself can contribute to a sense of entitlement, where individuals feel that they deserve special treatment or privileges without regard for the needs and desires of others. This can lead to selfish behavior and a lack of consideration for others.
Lack of accountability
Self-centered individuals may struggle to take responsibility for their actions and behaviors, instead shifting blame onto others or refusing to acknowledge their role in adverse situations. This can lead to a lack of personal growth and self-improvement.
Disregard for others’ needs
People who are too self-focused may prioritize their needs over those of others, leading to a lack of consideration for others’ feelings and desires. This can damage relationships and contribute to a sense of isolation and loneliness.
Does therapy improve selfishness or make it worse?
There is no straightforward answer to this question, as the effects of therapy on selfishness can vary widely depending on the individual and the type of therapy they receive. Generally speaking, treatment is designed to help individuals improve their emotional and psychological well-being by addressing underlying issues that may contribute to selfish behavior or attitudes. Through therapy, individuals can gain insight into their thinking and behavior patterns, develop coping skills, and learn to communicate more effectively with others.
Therapy can promote self-reflection and increase awareness of one’s impact on others, which can help individuals become more empathetic and considerate. However, some individuals may resist this process or use therapy as a way to justify or reinforce their self-centered behavior. In some cases, therapy can even be used as a means to manipulate or control others.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of therapy in addressing selfishness depends on a range of factors, including the individual’s willingness to engage in the therapeutic process, the quality of the therapeutic relationship, and the compatibility of the therapeutic approach with the individual’s needs and personality. The effectiveness of therapy in addressing selfishness depends on several factors, including:
Willingness to engage in therapy
The individual’s level of motivation and commitment to the therapeutic process is crucial to the success of therapy. Treatment may be ineffective without a willingness to actively engage in therapy and work towards change.
Quality of the therapeutic relationship
A robust therapeutic alliance between the therapist and the individual is essential for effective therapy. A positive and supportive relationship can promote trust, openness, and collaboration, facilitating change.
Compatibility of therapeutic approach
Different therapeutic approaches may be more effective for addressing specific types of selfish behavior or attitudes. Individuals must work with a therapist who utilizes an approach that aligns with their needs and personality.
The severity of the issue
The severity of the individual’s selfish behavior or attitude can impact the effectiveness of therapy. In some cases, more intensive or long-term treatment may be necessary to achieve significant change.
Support network
The individual’s support network, including family, friends, and other social support systems, can be essential to therapy success. Support from others can provide encouragement and reinforcement for positive changes made in therapy.
Co-occurring mental health issues
Co-occurring mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, can impact the effectiveness of therapy in addressing selfishness. It may be necessary to address these issues in treatment to fully address the individual’s selfish behavior or attitudes.
If you have a narcissist in your life whom you cannot completely cut off, choosing the right strategy to protect yourself is essential. No contact and gray rock are two of the most effective techniques for managing interactions with a narcissist, but which one is best for you? Let’s explore both approaches so you can make the right decision for your situation.
What is No Contact?
No contact means exactly that—absolutely no communication or interaction with the narcissist. Imagine a brick wall between you and them, where you neither know nor care about what happens on the other side. While the “not caring” part doesn’t happen overnight, it will come in time as you heal and break free from the trauma bond.
No contact goes beyond avoiding phone calls or in-person interactions. It also means:
Blocking their number and social media accounts
Avoiding places where you might run into them
Not checking their social media or that of their new target
Not asking friends or family for updates about them
Many survivors mistakenly believe they’re following no contact while still keeping tabs on their abuser through indirect means. However, each time you check their social media or ask about them, you are inviting them back into your mind. This is emotional contact, which keeps the trauma bond alive and prevents healing.
When Should You Go No Contact?
If you do not share children, work together, or have unavoidable family ties, no contact is the best choice. This means proactively blocking all access the narcissist has to you—both physically and mentally. Keeping a door open for them, even subconsciously, only allows them to maintain control over your emotions.
Victims often hesitate to block their abuser because they secretly hope for some form of contact. They may think they’ll feel empowered rejecting them or finally telling them off. However, this fleeting sense of power is deceptive. It only reactivates the trauma bond, pulling them back into the cycle of abuse.
Think of breaking no contact like a former smoker having “just one cigarette.” That single moment of weakness reactivates the addiction, making relapse inevitable. The same applies to narcissistic abuse—keeping the door open allows them to drag you back into the toxic cycle.
What is Gray Rock?
Gray rock is a strategy for when no contact isn’t an option. It involves making yourself as uninteresting as possible to the narcissist. You want to become like a dull, lifeless rock—giving them nothing to feed on emotionally.
With gray rock, you:
Keep conversations minimal and emotionless
Avoid reacting to their provocations
Give short, neutral responses
Refrain from defending, explaining, or justifying yourself
Maintain a calm, blank expression (robot face)
The goal is to starve the narcissist of the emotional reactions they crave, making you an unappealing source of supply. Over time, they will likely move on to an easier target.
When Should You Use Gray Rock?
Gray rock is necessary when you must interact with a narcissist, such as:
Co-parenting with them
Working with them
Being part of the same family
Attending unavoidable social events where they will be present
If you share a child, limiting interactions as much as possible is key. Just because you co-parent does not mean you need open communication 24/7. Boundaries are essential. Minimize conversations to only necessary topics regarding your child and keep exchanges emotionless.
No Contact vs. Gray Rock: Making the Right Choice
If you can go no contact, that is always the best option. However, if circumstances prevent this, mastering the gray rock technique can help you reclaim control and protect your emotional well-being.
Common Narcissistic Manipulation Tactics
Narcissists are incredibly cunning—but not in a good way. They will launch into abusive rants, calling you every name under the sun. But the moment they sense that you’re backing off, trying to go gray rock, and refusing to take the bait, they switch tactics.
The Fake Friendship Trap
Another common manipulation is when the narcissist starts acting like they want to be your friend. They casually message or call you just to chat, slipping into your life under the guise of co-parenting. You may find yourself hoping that this newfound friendliness is genuine—that maybe, just maybe, you can finally have a positive, functional relationship for the sake of your kids.
But soon enough, the mask slips. They go from playing nice to blindsiding you with criticism, gaslighting, and emotional attacks. One day, they act like a reasonable co-parent; the next, they’re dragging you back into chaos. This cycle is deliberate. It keeps you emotionally hooked, constantly guessing, and unable to heal.
Gray Rock with a Narcissistic Co-Parent
If you’re still in the family court process, consult your lawyer before implementing gray rock strategies. The legal system often fails to recognize personality disorders, and narcissists are masters at flipping the script—denying, attacking, and reversing the roles of victim and abuser. They may use the effects of their abuse (such as your anxiety or emotional distress) against you to paint you as unstable.
Once the court process is over, you can fully implement gray rock. Here’s how:
Block them on your phone. There is no reason a narcissist should have 24/7 access to you just because you share children. If an emergency arises, you can have a trusted third party serve as an intermediary.
Limit direct interactions. Pickups and drop-offs should be as brief and neutral as possible. If needed, consider third-party handovers through a trusted friend or supervised exchange center.
Anticipate their reactions. Expect resistance. When you stop engaging, they will try to regain control through guilt trips, silent treatment, or emotional manipulation. They’ll claim you’re being unreasonable or cruel, but remember: enforcing boundaries is not abuse.
Gray Rock with a Narcissistic Parent
Boundaries aren’t just for co-parenting—they apply to toxic family members too. Many adult children of narcissistic parents struggle with overwhelming guilt when setting boundaries. Years of conditioning make it feel easier to just “get the phone call over with” rather than face the inevitable backlash.
But if every conversation leaves you feeling drained, criticized, or manipulated, it’s time to make changes:
Limit contact. Reduce phone calls, visits, or interactions that are emotionally exhausting.
Predict their behavior. If they give you the silent treatment because you’re not calling as often, recognize it for what it is: an attempt to regain control.
Prepare for guilt. When you enforce boundaries, they will accuse you of being cruel or ungrateful. Expect it, process it, but don’t give in.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a narcissistic co-parent, parent, or family member, the key to protecting yourself is recognizing their tactics and refusing to engage in their manipulative games. They thrive on controlling your emotions, but the moment you take that power away, their hold on you weakens.
Going gray rock isn’t easy, but in time, it will bring you the peace and clarity you deserve. Choose the strategy that fits your situation best, and remember—you deserve peace, healing, and freedom from their toxic influence.
A narcissist is characterized by an excessive sense of self-importance and a profound lack of empathy for others, often craving admiration and believing in their uniqueness. While narcissism can manifest as a trait or a full-blown personality disorder, the secretive narcissist stands out as particularly elusive.
This type of narcissist excels at concealing their true nature and adeptly manipulating those around them. Despite sometimes presenting as humble or shy, their core is marked by selfishness, arrogance, and a sense of entitlement. Their toolbox includes deception, gaslighting, and projection, and they aim to control and exploit relationships, be it with partners, friends, or family members.
Secretive narcissists often battle with paranoia, insecurity, and jealousy, underpinned by a deep-seated shame and fear of being exposed. They epitomize the “wolves in sheep’s clothing” within the narcissistic world.
This article delves into the characteristics, motives, and behaviors of secretive narcissists, offering insights on how to identify, cope with, and heal from such relationships. Understanding the secretive narcissist is key to unveiling their mask and safeguarding yourself from their detrimental impact.
Identifying a Secretive Narcissist
How can you tell if someone is a secretive narcissist? Unlike the overt narcissist, who openly displays their sense of superiority and entitlement, the covert narcissist conceals their true nature behind a facade of humility and vulnerability. They may come across as shy, modest, or self-deprecating, yet beneath this disguise, they harbor a deep sense of self-centeredness, arrogance, and a propensity for manipulation.
Here are some signs that can help you identify a secretive narcissist in your life.
The Subtle Art of Neglect and Avoidance:
One of the tactics secretive narcissists use to control and hurt their partners is neglect and avoidance. They might appear distant, cold, indifferent, or withdrawn from intimacy and communication. It’s common for them to ignore or invalidate your feelings, needs, and opinions.
This behavior is designed to make you feel insecure, unworthy, and overly dependent on them. Additionally, it serves as a way for them to dodge accountability and responsibility for their actions.
They might blame you for their issues or label you as needy, clingy, or overly demanding.
Master of the Double Life
Another hallmark of a secretive narcissist is their ability to lead a double life. This could manifest through engaging in multiple affairs, maintaining secret hobbies, concealing financial activities, or hiding addictions.
They may resort to lying, cheating, or stealing without remorse. Furthermore, they often adopt different personas depending on the people they are with or the situation. They can be charming, friendly, and generous in public yet turn cruel, abusive, and selfish in private.
Despite pretending to be loyal, faithful, and honest, they are, in reality, disloyal, unfaithful, and dishonest. Their actions aim to deceive and exploit others while protecting their fragile ego from being exposed.
Misuse of Confidentiality and Silence
A third indicator of a secretive narcissist is their misuse of confidentiality and silence. They may insist that you keep their secrets or discourage you from sharing your troubles with others. They might also withhold their feelings, thoughts, or plans from you.
By giving you the silent treatment or withholding information, affection, or praise, they aim to isolate and confuse you, thereby maintaining their power and control. They might also lie by omission or deliberately avoid answering your questions, further entrenching their manipulative hold over you.
Dealing with the Challenges of the Secretive Narcissist:
Being in a relationship with a secretive narcissist can be very challenging. They may make you feel confused, frustrated, angry, or hurt.
They may also try to isolate you from your friends and family or sabotage your success and happiness. How can you deal with these challenges and protect yourself from their harm?
Here are some strategies that can help you.
Recognizing Manipulation Tactics:
The first step is to recognize the manipulation tactics that secretive narcissists use to control and exploit you. Some of these tactics are:
Flattery: They may compliment or praise you to make you feel good, but they don’t mean it. They may also use flattery to get something from you or to make you lower your guard.
Guilt: They may make you feel guilty or ashamed for not meeting their expectations or for having your own needs and feelings. They may also use guilt to make you do things for them or stay with them.
Threats: They may threaten to leave you, harm you, or expose your secrets if you don’t do what they want or try to leave them. They may also threaten to harm themselves or others to manipulate you.
Gaslighting: They may lie, deny, or distort the truth to make you doubt your reality, memory, or sanity. They may also blame you for their problems or accuse you of being crazy, paranoid, or delusional.
By recognizing these tactics, you can avoid falling for their traps and maintain your sense of self and reality.
The second step is to set clear and consistent boundaries with the secretive narcissist. Boundaries are the rules and limits you set for yourself and others in a relationship.
They help you to protect your rights, needs, and well-being. Some examples of boundaries are:
Saying no: You have the right to say no to anything that makes you uncomfortable, unhappy, or unsafe. You don’t have to justify, explain, or apologize for your choices.
Asking for what you want: You can ask for what you want and need in a relationship. You don’t have to settle for less or compromise your values.
Limiting contact: You have the right to limit or end contact with the secretive narcissist if they are abusive, disrespectful, or harmful to you. You don’t have to tolerate their behavior or stay with them out of fear or obligation.
By setting boundaries, you can assert your self-respect and dignity and prevent the secretive narcissist from taking advantage of you.
Seeking Support and Therapy
The third step is to seek support and therapy if you are in a relationship with a secretive narcissist. Support can come from your friends, family, or other people who understand what you are going through.
They can offer emotional, practical, or financial help or listen to and validate your feelings. Therapy can come from a professional counselor, therapist, or coach who can help you to heal from the trauma, pain, or damage caused by the secretive narcissist.
They can also help you rebuild your self-esteem, confidence, and identity and develop healthy coping skills and strategies.
By seeking support and therapy, you can break free from the cycle of abuse and manipulation and recover your mental and emotional health.
Recovering from a Relationship with a Secretive Narcissist:
After ending a relationship with a secretive narcissist, feelings of trauma, betrayal, and brokenness are common. Alongside these, you might grapple with low self-esteem and trust issues.
These reactions are normal and understandable, given the abuse and manipulation you’ve endured. However, recovering from the damage and reclaiming your life is possible. Below are steps to help you heal and grow after a narcissistic relationship.
Understanding the Impact on Self-esteem and Trust:
The first step is recognizing how the secretive narcissist has impacted your self-esteem and trust. These individuals often criticize, reject, and blame their partners, masking their shortcomings.
They may lie, cheat, and conceal their true selves to undermine your confidence and foster dependency. This behavior also serves to dodge intimacy and accountability.
As a result, feelings of worthlessness, unlovability, and foolishness may surface. To combat these negative emotions, it’s important to challenge the narcissist’s false beliefs. Understand that you are not the problem; they are. Remind yourself of your strengths, achievements, and values.
Reclaiming your identity and autonomy is essential, as is restoring trust in yourself and others. Achieve this by listening to your intuition, honoring your needs and feelings, and surrounding yourself with honest and supportive individuals.
Rebuilding Relationships and Social Connections:
The second step involves rebuilding your relationships and social connections. Secretive narcissists often isolate their partners from friends and family, sabotaging their success and happiness to maintain control and project their insecurities.
This can lead to feelings of loneliness, alienation, and depression. Overcoming these feelings requires reconnecting with those who care about and support you. Reach out to friends, family, or other survivors of narcissistic abuse to share your story and needs.
Accepting help, comfort, and advice is important, as is expanding your social network and discovering new activities and interests that align with your passions and values. Engage in groups, clubs, or communities, volunteer, travel, or learn something new to enrich your social life and well-being.
The third step is advancing your healing and personal growth. Despite the trauma and pain inflicted by secretive narcissists, there are also lessons, insights, and opportunities for growth.
You might feel angry, sad, scared, but grateful, wise, and hopeful. To navigate these emotions, process your trauma and pain, grieve your losses, express your emotions, and forgive yourself and others.
Seeking professional help, such as therapy or coaching, can be invaluable. Pursue healing and personal growth by learning from your experience, embracing challenges, and striving for positive change.
Set new goals, chase your dreams, and create your happiness. Remember, you have the power to rebuild and transform your life.
Empowerment against the Secretive Narcissist:
In this article, we have explored the dynamics of the secretive narcissist, a particularly insidious type of individual who conceals their true nature while manipulating those around them. We’ve delved into strategies for identifying, coping with, and ultimately healing from the scars left by a relationship with a secretive narcissist.
It’s clear that while the secretive narcissist can inflict significant emotional damage, this adversity can also serve as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and healing. The key steps involve unmasking their deceit, safeguarding our well-being, and reclaiming our lives.
If you find yourself entangled in a relationship with a secretive narcissist, or if you have suspicions that you might be, it’s imperative to take decisive action. Remember, you are not alone, and you unequivocally deserve better.
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