Have you ever felt like someone in your life constantly demands attention, admiration, and praise? Do they lack empathy for your feelings and needs, always putting themselves first? 

You may be dealing with a narcissist and not even realize it. Narcissism comes in many forms, from the loud and boastful coworker to the manipulative and controlling romantic partner. The signs are often subtle at first but become more apparent over time. 

“Narcissists are consumed with maintaining a shallow false self to others. They’re emotionally crippled souls that are addicted to attention. Because of this they use a multitude of games, in order to receive adoration. Sadly, they are the most ungodly of God’s creations because they don’t show remorse for their actions, take steps to make amends or have empathy for others. They are morally bankrupt.”
― Shannon L. Alder

Don’t ignore the red flags — narcissism is a destructive force that sucks the life out of relationships and self-esteem. Read on to discover 18 alarming signs of narcissism that may be hiding in plain sight in your life right now. 

The sooner you spot them, the sooner you can set healthy boundaries or remove this toxic influence from your world.

1. They Constantly Seek Attention And Validation. Narcissists Have An Insatiable Need For Attention And Praise.

Narcissists have an insatiable need for attention and praise. If you have one in your life, they’re constantly looking for compliments and validation. 

They post frequently on social media fishing for likes and comments. In person, they dominate conversations talking about themselves and their accomplishments.

Your time and attention are never enough. They always want more accolades and admiration. And if you don’t provide it, they become angry or passive-aggressive. Their fragile egos need constant inflation, so they surround themselves with people who will feed their never-ending appetite for flattery and glorification.

The spotlight has to be on them. They crave being the center of attention and believe they are the most interesting and important person in the room. They frequently interrupt others and turn the focus of conversations back to themselves. 

Your interests, hobbies, and achievements are unimportant to them unless they can use them as a way to highlight their own superiority or success in some way.

If someone in your life exhibits these attention-seeking behaviors, chances are you have a narcissist on your hands. The bad news is they’re unlikely to change. 

But by recognizing the signs, you can establish boundaries to protect yourself from their manipulation and insatiable demands for praise and worship. Your time and mental well-being will thank you.

2. They Exaggerate Their Achievements And Talents. Narcissists Inflate Their Accomplishments And Skills In Order To Feel Superior.

Narcissists love to exaggerate their talents and accomplishments. They constantly tell stories about their achievements and skills in an attempt to make themselves seem superior.

• They brag excessively about their achievements and goals. Everything they do is the “biggest” or the “best”. Their accomplishments are always overblown.
• They claim to have skills and talents they don’t actually possess. Narcissists pretend to be more talented or skilled than they really are to gain admiration.
• They drop names and make exaggerated claims about their connections and relationships. They name-drop prestigious people they know in order to seem more important by association.
• They demand constant praise and admiration. Narcissists expect people to lavish them with compliments and accolades for even minor achievements to feed their ego.
• They can’t handle criticism. Give a narcissist constructive criticism and they’ll lash out in anger or retaliation. Their exaggerated egos can’t stand to be called out or proven wrong.
• They feel entitled to special treatment. Narcissists believe they deserve special privileges, advantages, and status due to their perceived talents or skills. They expect people to cater to their needs.

With an inflated sense of self, narcissists exaggerate their own importance to feel superior and maintain their fragile egos. Their exaggerated claims and constant need for admiration are telltale signs of a narcissistic personality that demands to be the center of attention at all costs.

3. They Monopolize Conversations. Narcissists Love To Talk About Themselves And Don’t Give Others A Chance To Speak.

Narcissists love to talk about themselves and rarely give others a chance to speak. Conversations with narcissists typically revolve around them. They frequently interject information about themselves into discussions that have nothing to do with them.

“Narcissists will never tell you the truth. They live with the fear of abandonment and can’t deal with facing their own shame. Therefore, they will twist the truth, downplay their behavior, blame others and say what ever it takes to remain the victim. They are master manipulators and conartists that don’t believe you are smart enough to figure out the depth of their disloyalty. Their needs will always be more important than telling you any truth that isn’t in their favor..”
― Shannon L. Alder

If you’re with a narcissist, you’ll struggle to get a word in edgewise. They incessantly talk about their lives, their interests, their accomplishments, and their opinions. They don’t seem to care what others have to contribute. In their minds, they are the most fascinating and important people in the room.

Narcissists also have a tendency to turn the focus of a discussion back to themselves. For example, if you were to mention an achievement, they might say something like, “That’s great, it reminds me of the time I did something similar.” They are incapable of genuinely listening to others or showing interest in what’s going on in someone else’s life.

Conversations with narcissists leave you feeling unheard and unimportant. The only way to get them to actually listen is to shower them with compliments and praise. But even then, they will soon redirect the discussion back to themselves. The only person a narcissist is truly interested in is number one.

4. They Constantly Feel Underappreciated. No Matter How Much Praise They Get, Narcissists Always Feel It’s Not Enough.

Narcissists constantly crave attention and praise, but no matter how much they get, it’s never enough. They have an insatiable appetite for admiration that can never be satisfied.

“Often the narcissist believes that other people are “faking it”, leveraging emotional displays to achieve a goal. He is convinced that their ostensible “feelings” are grounded in ulterior, non-emotional motives. Faced with other people’s genuine emotions, the narcissist becomes suspicious and embarrassed. He feels compelled to avoid emotion-tinged situations, or worse, experiences surges of almost uncontrollable aggression in the presence of expressed sentiments. They remind him how imperfect he is and how poorly equipped.”
― Sam Vaknin

Narcissists see themselves as superior to others, so in their minds, they deserve a never-ending stream of compliments and accolades. But because their self-esteem is so fragile, even the most effusive praise quickly loses its effect, and they need another “hit” to feel good about themselves again.

They expect you to make them the center of your world and shower them with a steady supply of applause, acclaim, and exaltation. If you don’t give them the worship they feel they deserve, they become petulant, angry, or dismissive. 

And even when you do compliment them, they have trouble believing it’s genuine or enough. Their bottomless pit of need for praise means that they constantly feel underappreciated and like their ego-stroking requirements aren’t being met.

This insatiable need for praise and admiration is one of the hallmarks of narcissism. The irony is that no matter how much applause they receive, narcissists remain insecure at their core. They rely on the adoration of others to prop up their fragile self-esteem and fill the inner emptiness they feel. But ultimately, nothing and no one can ever fill that void.

5. They Take Advantage Of Others. Narcissists Have No Problem Using People For Their Own Gain.

Narcissists will take advantage of your kindness and generosity without a second thought. They see people as objects to use for their benefit, not as actual human beings with feelings.

They Use Flattery and Charm For Their Gain

Narcissists know how to pour on the charm to get what they want. They will flatter you with compliments and do favors to win you over. But as soon as you cease to serve their needs or purposes, the flattery and charm disappear. 

Their sweet words are just a means to an end to manipulate you into giving them money, gifts, status, or whatever else they want at the time.

They Expect Special Treatment

Narcissists believe they are special and entitled to privileges that ordinary people don’t receive. They expect people to cater to their needs and make exceptions for them. If you don’t give a narcissist the special treatment they believe they deserve, they will become angry and vengeful. They truly see themselves as superior to others.

“You will never get the truth out of a Narcissist. The closest you will ever come is a story that either makes them the victim or the hero, but never the villain.”
― shannon l. alder

They Take But Rarely Give

A narcissist’s willingness to help only goes as far as it benefits them. They are takers, not givers. Narcissists lack empathy, so they are unwilling to provide emotional support or help to others unless they have something to gain from it. Their selfishness and greed know no bounds. Beware of their false generosity — it always comes with strings attached.

They Exploit Your Weaknesses

Narcissists are skilled at finding your vulnerabilities and using them against you. They will ask probing questions to discover your weaknesses, fears, and insecurities. 

And they have no qualms about exploiting what they learn for their own gain. Your secrets and vulnerabilities are tools for them to manipulate you, not things to keep private out of respect or care for you. They prey on people’s weaknesses without remorse.

6. They Lack Empathy. Narcissists Are Unable To Understand Or Share In Other People’s Feelings.

Narcissists lack empathy, and the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. They simply don’t care how their words or actions might affect you emotionally. 

If you try to communicate your hurt or disappointment to a narcissist, they will likely turn the tables to make themselves the victim.

You’ll notice the narcissist in your life:

• Rarely apologizes or says “I’m sorry” for hurting you. They don’t feel remorse for their actions.
• Struggles to listen when you share difficult feelings. They seem bored, annoyed, or change the subject.
• Never ask follow-up questions or seem genuinely concerned when you tell them about your life, feelings, or struggles. The conversation always circles back to them.
• Become angry or play the victim when you express your own needs or set boundaries. Your feelings are an inconvenience to them.
• Lacks compassion. They don’t offer comfort or support when you’re going through a hard time. Your pain or misfortune is just an annoyance.

The inability to empathize is one of the most damaging characteristics of narcissism. Recognizing this lack of empathy is key to understanding the emotional abuse and manipulation that often comes with these relationships. 

You deserve to be around people who treat you with kindness, compassion, and care. Don’t settle for less.

7. They React Poorly To Criticism. Even Constructive Criticism Is Seen As A Personal Attack By Narcissists.

Narcissists simply can’t handle criticism, even if it’s meant to be constructive. Any feedback that implies they are less than perfect will be met with defensiveness and hostility.

• They will blame others rather than accept responsibility for their mistakes or shortcomings. It’s always someone else’s fault.
• They will attack the critic in an attempt to undermine their credibility. Narcissists frequently resort to personal insults and criticism of the other person’s character or motives.
• They see any criticism as a betrayal and personal attack. Rather than evaluate the feedback objectively, narcissists perceive constructive criticism as a threat and react viscerally.
• They will refuse to listen to reasonable critiques and dismiss them out of hand. It’s as if they cannot bear to acknowledge any imperfections or room for improvement.
• They may threaten or intimidate the critic to avoid future feedback. The narcissist’s fragile ego must be protected at all costs.
• They will rewrite history and deny past mistakes to avoid culpability. Lying and revising facts are common tactics narcissists employ to escape blame and safeguard their delusions of perfection.

8. They Have A Sense Of Entitlement. Narcissists Believe They Deserve Special Treatment And That Rules Don’t Apply To Them.

Narcissists believe the rules don’t apply to them and that they deserve special treatment. They act like they are more important than everyone else and that normal social etiquette or basic courtesy doesn’t apply to their situation. 

They expect people to cater to their needs and wants. If you say “no” to a narcissist or don’t give them what they want immediately, they become impatient and angry.

“pathological narcissists can lose touch with reality in subtle ways that become extremely dangerous over time. When they can’t let go of their need to be admired or recognized, they have to bend or invent a reality in which they remain special despite all messages to the contrary.”
― Bandy X Lee

They see themselves as superior and believe they should be able to cut in line, break the rules, or take advantage of others with no consequences. Don’t expect a narcissist to wait their turn or be considerate of your needs. Their needs always come first in their mind. They lack empathy for how their behavior impacts those around them.

Narcissists often have an exaggerated sense of self-importance and exaggerate their achievements and talents. They overestimate their own importance and believe they are unique or special compared to others. 

Their sense of entitlement and arrogance is a hallmark sign of unhealthy narcissism. Don’t feed their ego by giving them constant praise, gifts, or special treatment which will only make their sense of entitlement worse over time.

9. They Are Obsessed With Power. Power And Status Are Critical To The Narcissist’s Fragile Self-esteem.

Narcissists crave power and status like a drug. They believe they are special and deserve to be in control. As a result, they constantly seek positions of power and prestige to feed their ego.

Narcissists are master manipulators and will do almost anything to climb the ladder of success. They are willing to exploit others, spread misinformation, and take credit for other people’s work to gain influence and authority. Once in a position of power, they demand obedience and admiration from those below them.

“No other being is lesser human than the one who thinks of others as such.”
― Abhijit Naskar

When narcissists achieve a position of power, they often become tyrannical leaders. They expect special treatment and privileges. They severely punish anyone who questions or threatens their dominance. Narcissistic bosses, politicians, and authority figures frequently abuse their power through bullying, aggression, and unfair policies that benefit themselves.

Narcissists believe they deserve the best of everything by virtue of who they are. When in power, they award themselves lavish salaries and benefits. They expect constant praise, tributes, and accolades from underlings and followers. Anyone who does not sufficiently stroke the narcissist’s ego risks facing their wrath.

A narcissist’s self-esteem is entirely dependent on the status, power, and privileges they are able to attain. Without these external markers of worth, their inner emptiness and insecurity become evident. This is why narcissists are willing to do almost anything to gain influence and ascend to positions of power where they can receive the validation they so desperately crave.

10. They Exaggerate Their Intimacy With Influential People. Narcissists Constantly Name Drop And Overstate Their Connections.

Narcissists tend to exaggerate their connections and intimacy with influential or high-status people to make themselves seem more important. They are constantly name-dropping and overstating their relationships.

For example, they may say things like:

• “Oh, I was just talking to the CEO of that company the other day. We go way back.”
• “The mayor and I were chatting over drinks last night. We’re good friends.”
• “I have Senator so-and-so on speed dial. We talk all the time.”

The truth is, these relationships are usually casual acquaintances at best if they exist at all. The narcissist uses these imaginary connections and name-dropping to boost their own status in the eyes of others and feed their ego.

Don’t be too impressed by the people a narcissist claims to know. Chances are, they are exaggerating the depth and importance of these relationships to manipulate you into thinking they are more powerful or influential than they really are. Their address book isn’t nearly as robust as they make it out to be.

The bottom line is that narcissists constantly feel the need to prove their worth through who they know rather than their actual accomplishments or merits. 

But their supposed circle of close connections is largely fictional. Don’t buy into their self-aggrandizing name-dropping and ego-stroking tales of rubbing elbows with the influential elite.

11. They Feel The Rules Don’t Apply To Them. Laws, Social Conventions, And Ethical Standards Are Only For Others In The Narcissist’s Mind.

The rules don’t apply to narcissists. They believe they are special and entitled to special treatment. Laws, social conventions, and ethical standards are only for the little people, not them.

Double standards

Narcissists hold others to strict rules that they don’t follow themselves. They make harsh judgments about people who break rules or social norms but give themselves a free pass. After all, the rules don’t really apply to them.

It’s never the narcissist’s fault. They don’t take responsibility for their mistakes and failures. There’s always an excuse or someone else to blame. Apologizing or admitting fault is a sign of weakness to them. You’ll rarely get a sincere apology from a narcissist.

Entitlement

Narcissists feel entitled to whatever they want — money, status, rewards, admiration. They believe they deserve special treatment, more benefits, and lavish gifts. Their needs and desires trump everyone else’s. If they don’t get what they feel entitled to, watch out. Their entitled rage can be scary.

“Being a control freak is a weakness, not a strength. If you can’t allow others to shine, you’re exhibiting signs of narcissism and showing a lack of self-confidence. It is isolation through ego.”
― Stewart Stafford

While everyone bends the rules at times or feels entitled on occasion, narcissists take it to an extreme. The rules and social norms that apply to everyone else simply don’t apply to them in their minds. And if you point out their hypocrisy or double standards, be prepared for an argument. Narcissists don’t like being confronted with the truth, especially about themselves.

12. They Constantly Compare Themselves To Others. A Narcissist Always Needs To Be The Most Successful Or Talented Person In The Room.

A narcissist constantly needs validation that they are the best, and one way they do this is by comparing themselves to others. They always need to feel superior to those around them.

They brag about their accomplishments and possessions.

Narcissists love talking themselves up and bragging about how much they make, what they own, who they know, or what they’ve achieved to make themselves seem more successful or important than others.

They put others down to build themselves up.

In order to feel superior, narcissists will frequently criticize, insult, and belittle those around them. Tearing others down is their way of propping themselves up.

They exaggerate their achievements and talents.

Narcissists have an exaggerated sense of self-importance and will often lie or exaggerate to make themselves seem more accomplished or skilled than they really are. They live in a fantasy world where they are the most talented, intelligent, or successful person.

They can’t handle not being the center of attention.

A narcissist believes they should be the focal point in any situation and that they are entitled to special treatment and admiration. They crave constant compliments and are envious of others who steal the spotlight.

They feel threatened by other people’s successes and accomplishments.

Because narcissists need to be superior to others at all times, the success and achievements of those around them are threatening. They cannot be genuinely happy for other people and will try to undermine them to feel better about themselves.

13. They Put Others Down. Making Others Feel Small Is A Common Narcissistic Ploy.

Narcissists will frequently criticize those around them to make themselves feel superior. If someone in your life is constantly putting you or others down with insults, judgments, or dismissive behavior, this could indicate narcissism.

• They frequently insult you, criticize your appearance, or make fun of your interests and hobbies. Rather than build you up, they seem focused on tearing you down.
• They judge harshly and make overly critical comments about others’ choices and lifestyles. In their eyes, no one measures up to their high standards.
• They dismiss or ignore your accomplishments and achievements. When you share the good news, they are quick to point out flaws or claim you could have done better.
• They compare you unfavorably to others as a way to diminish your self-esteem. Statements like “Why can’t you be more like your sister?” are meant to make you feel inadequate.
• They correct or debate you on small, inconsequential details just to prove you wrong. Being right is more important than considering your feelings.
• They make subtle digs and snide comments cloaked in humor. Upon closer look, their “jokes” and teasing have an underlying mean-spiritedness to them.

Putting others down is a way for narcissists to prop themselves up and maintain their delusions of grandeur. Don’t let their hurtful words diminish your own self-worth. Surround yourself with people who treat you with kindness, empathy and respect.

14. They React Ragefully To Being Upstaged. Few Things Enrage A Narcissist More Than Someone Outshining Them.

Upstaging a narcissist is a sure way to incur their wrath. Their fragile ego depends on being the center of attention, so when someone threatens that spotlight, watch out.

“Some people, in an attempt to mask their shortcomings dig lies so deep, they end up drowning in a sea of their own delusions!”
― Carlos Wallace

They lash out aggressively.

When a narcissist’s limelight is stolen, they react with rage, hostility, and bullying. They may verbally attack the person who outshined them in an attempt to diminish their accomplishment and make themselves feel superior again. Their anger is a defense mechanism to mask the insecurity and inadequacy they feel underneath.

They play the victim.

The narcissist will twist the situation to make themselves into the victim. They claim that the other person “sabotaged” them or “conspired” to embarrass them. In their mind, they can do no wrong, so someone else must be responsible for their distress. They fail to see their own jealousy and competitiveness as the source of their angst.

They seek revenge.

Hell hath no fury like a narcissist scorned. They may embark on a campaign to destroy the reputation or credibility of the person who dared to upstage them. Their vindictiveness comes from a place of pettiness, not a genuine sense of injustice. Hurting others makes them feel powerful again in the wake of being humiliated.

The narcissist’s extreme reaction to being upstaged reveals the depth of their unhealthy self-absorption and need for constant validation. But their attempts to regain supremacy come at the cost of trampling on others and further damaging their relationships. The healthiest response is to not engage in their games and instead surround yourself with people who celebrate your wins, not resent them.

15. They Are Manipulative. Narcissists Use Emotional Manipulation To Get What They Want From Others.

Narcissists are masters of manipulation and will use emotional manipulation to get what they want from you.

They Play the Victim.

Narcissists are always the victim. They twist situations to make it seem like they were wronged or treated unfairly to gain sympathy and compassion from others. They exaggerate their emotions to make you feel guilty and responsible for their well-being. Don’t fall for their pity party.

They Gaslight You.

Gaslighting is a tactic used by narcissists to make you question your own sanity and perception of events. They deny that something happened when it did or claim that events occurred differently than they remember. This causes self-doubt and confusion, making you easier to manipulate. Trust your own memories and don’t let them distort the truth.

“So many abusers survivors feel they were loved so little, as if the abuser was the most important person to receive love from. They forget that God loves them deeply and that is the only person’s love they need to validate their worth.”
― Shannon L. Alder

They Use Fear and Intimidation.

Narcissists instill fear in others to get what they want. They may threaten to leave you, spread lies about you, or even become physically violent. Do not give in to their threats and intimidation. Stand up for yourself while also keeping your distance from them as much as possible. Their behavior is unacceptable and you deserve to feel safe.

They Flatter and Charm.

Narcissists lay on the charm and flattery thick to get in your good graces. They compliment you excessively and make grand gestures to win you over and make you like them. Don’t be fooled by their charm and charisma. Their praise and admiration are not genuine and only serve to manipulate you into giving them what they want.

16. They Lack Ability To Nurture Intimate Relationships. Narcissists Struggle To Foster Genuine Connections, Even With Loved Ones.

Narcissists struggle to maintain long-term, meaningful relationships. Their self-centeredness and lack of empathy make it difficult to nurture genuine connections, even with close friends and family.

They lack intimacy.

Narcissists have a hard time opening up or being vulnerable with others. They prefer superficial interactions that feed their ego, not deep emotional bonds. As a result, their relationships tend to be unfulfilling and short-lived.

They lose interest quickly.

Once the thrill of the chase or initial admiration wears off, narcissists become bored and restless. They constantly seek out new sources of attention and praise. Long-term partners and friends often feel discarded or ghosted as the narcissist pursues new conquests.

“Someone asked me, “Who hurt you so badly?” I replied, “my own expectations.”
― Shannon L. Alder

They lack reciprocity.

Relationships require give and take, but narcissists mainly take. They expect others to meet their needs without reciprocating or showing interest in their partners’ lives or feelings. Their selfishness and entitlement eventually drain the life out of their connections.

They crave control and admiration.

Narcissists demand to be the center of attention and in control at all times. They surround themselves with people who make them feel superior and admired. If you stop feeding their ego or defy their demands, they become angry, critical, and manipulative. These unhealthy relationship dynamics are ultimately unsustainable.

While narcissists can be charming and exciting at first, their inability to achieve true intimacy and nurture mutual, loving relationships leads to a string of failed connections, hurt feelings, and distrust. Their selfishness poisons the well of goodwill, leaving a wake of people who feel used, abused, and discarded.

17. They Have A Fragile Sense Of Self. Behind The Grandiose Facade Is Often Deep Insecurity And Vulnerability.

A fragile sense of self is common in narcissists. Behind their grandiose facade is deep insecurity and vulnerability.

They crave constant praise and admiration.

They need constant ego stroking and approval from those around them. Without it, their self-esteem crumbles. They rely on the admiration of others to feel good about themselves.

They lash out when criticized.

Even constructive criticism is seen as a personal attack. They lash out in anger or try to belittle the other person in response. Their ego is too fragile to handle criticism gracefully.

They exaggerate their achievements and talents.

They feel the need to exaggerate their achievements and talents to seem more impressive. Underneath the boasting and bravado is a vulnerable person with an unstable self-image.

They envy others and believe others envy them.

They envy the success and happiness of others while also believing that others envy them. This mix of envy and entitlement is a product of their fragile self-worth.

“so often victims end up unnecessarily prolonging their abuse because they buy into the notion that their abuser must be coming from a wounded place and that only patient love and tolerance (and lots of misguided therapy) will help them heal.”
― George K. Simon

They lack self-awareness.

Their fragile ego prevents them from developing self-awareness. To acknowledge their vulnerabilities and imperfections would be too threatening. It’s easier to blame others than to engage in honest self-reflection.

This fragile sense of self, demanding constant ego-stroking and admiration, is a hallmark of narcissism. Their grandiose exterior masks deep feelings of inadequacy, insecurity, and vulnerability that they cannot bear to face. Providing them with praise and validation only enables their narcissism rather than helping to build real self-esteem.

18. They Struggle To Cope With Change. Change Represents A Loss Of Control To The Narcissist, Triggering Feelings Of Weakness.

Narcissists have a hard time dealing with change or unexpected events that disrupt their sense of control.

Any deviation from their normal routine can trigger feelings of weakness and vulnerability.

They prefer to keep things exactly as they are, on their terms. If there are changes at work or in a relationship, they may react angrily or passive-aggressively. Rather than adapt, they double down and demand that things go back to the way they were before.

Flexibility and openness to change are signs of emotional maturity that the narcissist lacks. For them, the unfamiliar represents a loss of power and the potential for embarrassment or failure. They worry about how changes might affect the way others view them.

“When we meet and fall into the gravitational pull of a narcissist, we are entering a significant life lesson that involves learning how to create boundaries, self-respect, and resilience. Through trial and error (and a lot of pain), our connection with narcissists teaches us the necessary lessons we need to become mature empaths.”
― Mateo Sol

The next time the narcissist in your life overreacts to a small change in plans or throws a fit over an unexpected event, remember that their behavior says more about their own insecurities than anything else. Stay calm and don’t engage or argue. 

Let their anger burn out on its own. While you can’t force them to become more adaptable, you can choose not to feed into their need for control by remaining unreactive.

Conclusion

So there you have it. 18 signs that narcissism may be lurking in your life, whether in a friend, family member, or romantic partner. The thing is, narcissists are often charming and charismatic at first. But over time, the signs start to show through the cracks. 

Don’t ignore the red flags waving right in front of you. Trust your gut — if something feels off about the way this person treats you or others, it probably is. You deserve to surround yourself with people who treat you with empathy, respect, and compassion. 

And life is too short to waste on anyone who makes you feel small or worthless. If any of these signs resonate with you, it may be time to distance yourself from that relationship. Your happiness and self-worth depend on it.