• The empath may feel a sense of relief and freedom after leaving the narcissist.
No more walking on eggshells, no more worrying about pleasing someone who can never be pleased. It’s like taking off your bra at the end of a long day.
• They may experience a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, and confusion.
It’s an emotional rollercoaster that you didn’t sign up for but here we are. You’ll cry over spilled milk one minute and then want to punch them in the face the next.
• The narcissist may try to hoover them back in with promises or manipulation tactics.
They will suddenly become Prince Charming or Princess Leia when they realize their punching bag has left. Don’t fall for it!
• The empath may struggle with setting boundaries and saying no to the narcissist’s demands.
You’re used to putting others’ needs before yours but now it’s time to put yourself first (cue Destiny’s Child). Say “no” loud enough so even Stevie Wonder can hear you.
• They may need time to heal from the emotional trauma inflicted by the relationship.
Think of this as rehab for toxic relationships. Take all the time you need because healing is not linear nor easy – just ask anyone who has tried yoga!
• The empath may have difficulty trusting others or forming new relationships due to their past experiences with the narcissist.
Trust issues? More like trust mountain ranges! But hey, if people can still believe in horoscopes then surely there must be hope for us yet?
• They might benefit from therapy or support groups for survivors of abusive relationships.
Therapy isn’t just reserved for rich white men named Chad anymore – everyone could use some help sometimes! Support groups are also great places where you don’t have to explain why wine tastes better than water.
• Leaving a narcissistic partner can be empowering for an empath as they reclaim their independence and self-worth.
It’s like taking back your power from a villain in a Disney movie. You’re the protagonist now, baby!
• The empath may have to deal with the narcissist’s smear campaign, where they spread lies and rumors about them.
Rumors are just grown-up versions of playing telephone – except this time it can ruin your reputation or career. But hey, at least you’ll know who your real friends are.
• They might feel guilty for leaving the narcissist behind, especially if they were emotionally dependent on them.
Guilt is that annoying friend who won’t leave even though you’ve already said goodbye. It takes time but eventually guilt will get tired and move on.
• The empath may realize that their feelings and needs were ignored or dismissed by the narcissist in the relationship.
You had more red flags than China during National Day celebrations but now hindsight is 20/20!
• After leaving a narcissistic partner, an empath can focus on self-care and personal growth.
Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s necessary! Take yourself out for ice cream because let’s be honest: Ben & Jerry never hurt anyone.
• They may struggle with feeling lonely or isolated after losing contact with mutual friends or family members due to the breakup.
Loneliness feels like being stranded on an island without any wifi signal (the horror!). But remember: there are plenty of fish in the sea…or so I hear?
• An empath who leaves a narcissist should be prepared for potential legal battles over custody of children, assets, or property.
Lawyers aren’t cheap but neither is therapy! Just make sure you don’t end up selling one kidney to pay off those bills…
• They may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, or anxiety attacks after ending the relationship.
Flashbacks? More like “oh no not again” moments! But hey, at least you can use those anxiety attacks as an excuse to skip work.
• It is possible for an empath to heal from this traumatic experience and find happiness again.
It’s like that one quote: “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” Just replace “fall” with “date a narcissist”.