All That Glitters is Pathetic

The Fragile Reality of Narcissists

Narcissists are like human chameleons, constantly changing their masks and faces to fit their audience. It’s like watching a one-person circus act where the clown, ringmaster, and lion tamer are all the same person. Dr. Ramani Durvasula hilariously puts it, “Dealing with a narcissist is like trying to nail Jell-O to a wall.” Good luck keeping up with their endless costume changes!

In the morning, they might wear the “Charming Hero” mask, sweeping you off your feet with grand gestures and endless compliments. By afternoon, they’ve swapped to the “Innocent Victim” face, lamenting how the world just doesn’t understand their brilliance. Come evening, it’s time for the “Raging Tyrant” mask, complete with fireworks if you dare to question their perfection.

The narcissist’s favorite performance? The “Life of the Party” face. At social events, they’re all smiles and charisma, making everyone think they’re the coolest person in the room. Meanwhile, you’re left wondering if they’ve secretly cloned themselves, because this person is unrecognizable.

But here’s the twist: all these masks are just a cover for their deep-seated insecurities. They’re like an actor who never leaves the stage, terrified of being seen for who they really are. Every mask is a desperate attempt to hide the emptiness inside.

So, next time you see a narcissist juggling their many faces, just remember, it’s all part of the show. Grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the spectacle. And always keep Dr. Ramani’s quote in mind—nailing Jell-O to a wall is easier than pinning down a narcissist!

Sources:

• Durvasula, R. (2015). Should I Stay or Should I Go? Surviving a Relationship with a Narcissist. Post Hill Press.

• Durvasula, R. (2019). Don’t You Know Who I Am? How to Stay Sane in an Era of Narcissism, Entitlement, and Incivility. Post Hill Press.

• American Psychological Association. (2023). Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Retrieved from APA

• Psychology Today. (2020). Recognizing Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Retrieved from Psychology Today

• National Domestic Violence Hotline. (2023). Support for Victims of Narcissistic Abuse. Retrieved from The Hotline