• Be clear and direct about the reasons for leaving: When you’re breaking up with a narcissist, it’s important to be crystal clear about why you’re ending things. Don’t beat around the bush or try to sugarcoat anything – just tell them straight-up what led you to this decision.
• Avoid blaming or shaming language, as it may escalate their defensive behavior: While it can be tempting to let loose on your soon-to-be-ex-narcissist with every insult in the book, doing so will only make matters worse. Try to keep your tone neutral and avoid using accusatory language that might trigger their defensiveness.
• Keep communication brief and to-the-point, without getting drawn into arguments or debates: The last thing you want is for your breakup conversation with a narcissist to turn into an hours-long debate over who did what wrong. Stick to the facts of why you are leaving and don’t get sidetracked by any attempts they make at manipulation.
• Set boundaries around future contact and stick to them firmly: Once you’ve broken up with a narcissist, there’s a good chance they’ll still try to worm their way back into your life. Establish firm boundaries around how much contact (if any) is acceptable going forward – then hold fast when they inevitably test those limits.
• Acknowledge any positive qualities they have but make it clear that those are not enough to sustain the relationship: Narcissists aren’t all bad – after all, there must have been something that drew you two together in the first place! But while acknowledging these positives can help soften the blow of breaking up, remember that one redeeming quality does not outweigh toxic behavior patterns.
• Express empathy for their feelings while also asserting your own needs and priorities: Breaking up sucks no matter which side of the equation you’re on. As such, expressing compassion towards even someone as self-absorbed as a narcissist can go a long way towards keeping things civil. However, don’t let that empathy override your own needs and priorities.
• Avoid making promises you cannot keep or giving false hope of reconciliation: It’s easy to fall into the trap of telling a narcissist what they want to hear in order to avoid conflict – but doing so will only prolong the inevitable. Be honest about where you stand and resist any attempts they make at bargaining for another chance.
• Use “I” statements to describe your own feelings and experiences, rather than making accusations or generalizations: When breaking up with anyone (but especially a narcissist), it’s important not to come across as judgmental or accusatory. Stick with “I feel” statements that emphasize your emotions and personal experience, rather than trying to diagnose their behavior.
• Avoid engaging in any behaviors that may trigger their narcissistic rage, such as criticism or rejection: Narcissists have notoriously thin skin when it comes to anything resembling criticism or rejection – even if it’s constructive feedback meant to help them grow! As such, steer clear of these types of comments during your breakup conversation if possible.
• Be prepared for them to try manipulate or guilt-trip you into staying, but stay firm in your decision: Just because you’ve decided this relationship isn’t working doesn’t mean the other party is going down without a fight. Prepare yourself mentally for all manner of manipulation tactics designed specifically around playing on insecurities before sticking firmly by whatever choice feels right for YOU!
• Consider seeking support from a therapist or trusted friend before and after the conversation with the narcissist: Breaking up with someone who has been emotionally manipulating you can be tough stuff! Don’t hesitate reaching out professional help – whether through therapy sessions online/offline-  or leaning on friends & family members who understand what’s happening behind closed doors
• Don’t expect them take responsibility for their actions show genuine remorse – they are unlikely to change without intensive therapy: Narcissists are known for their inability or unwillingness to take responsibility for their actions. They’re also not exactly the most empathetic bunch, so don’t hold your breath waiting for a heartfelt apology. If you do want them to get help and improve themselves, it’s going to require some serious work on their part.
• Remember that leaving a narcissist can be emotionally challenging, so prioritize self-care and give yourself time to heal: Breaking up with anyone is tough – but breaking up with someone who has been manipulating you in ways subtle or overtly can leave deep scars. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself – whether that means indulging in hobbies & interests that make YOU happy or seeking out professional support!