I came across an article today "Empaths and narcissists make a toxic partnership". Reading through it felt like I read the story of my current relationship. They say opposites attract each other and maybe it is true for a short period of time though. Love, they say, is a dance between two souls. But what happens when one partner is a narcissist, and the other, an empath? This unique and often destructive pairing creates a toxic relationship dynamic that can be both captivating and damaging.

An empath is someone who is capable of understanding and feeling the emotions of others, often placing the needs of others above their own. On the other hand, a narcissist is characterized by an excessive sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. In relationships, they seek to maintain power and dominance, which is where the empath's role comes into play. The empath's caring nature, combined with the narcissist's hunger for attention, can create a destructive dynamic.

The Attraction and the Dance: The initial attraction between a narcissist and an empath can be intense. The narcissist is captivated by the empath's unwavering care and emotional support, while the empath may be charmed by the narcissist's confidence and charisma. This magnetic pull creates the foundation of their bond, but it's also where the destructive pattern begins.

The Destructive Cycle: As the relationship progresses, the empath becomes increasingly involved in the narcissist's web of manipulation. The empath's selflessness and eagerness to please make them easy prey for the narcissist's control tactics. They may find themselves giving endlessly, losing sight of their own needs and boundaries.

The narcissist, fueled by their desire for admiration, may exploit the empath's vulnerability, emotionally manipulating them to do their bidding. This creates a cycle of emotional abuse, as the empath becomes emotionally drained and increasingly dependent on the narcissist for validation.

Impact on the Empath: The empath's emotional well-being and self-esteem suffer in the relationship. They may experience feelings of inadequacy, as the narcissist's demands and criticisms become more prominent. The empath's selflessness is taken advantage of, and they may lose sight of their own identity as they mold themselves to fulfill the narcissist's desires.

Breaking Free: Breaking free from this toxic dance can be challenging for the empath. The first step is recognizing the unhealthy patterns and acknowledging that they deserve respect and love, just as much as anyone else. Establishing boundaries and seeking support from friends, family, or therapists can help the empath regain control of their life.

The relationship between a narcissist and an empath is a complex and dangerous dance. While the empath's nurturing nature may initially draw them to the narcissist, it can also lead to emotional manipulation and abuse. Recognizing the unhealthy patterns and finding the strength to break free is crucial for the empath's well-being. Remember, love should never be a destructive force, but rather a harmonious union of two souls that empower and uplift each other.

Remember, healing takes time, patience, and self-compassion. You deserve a healthy, nurturing relationship that allows you to flourish and thrive. And don't forget, you're great as you are independent of what a narcissist may try to make you believe.