Meghan Markle — Royal Talk, Real Talk, and a Dash of Drama
When Oprah sliced into the Palace of the Crown, she got the full royal package: a rundown on “oppression” felt by the “Monarchs,” Meghan’s bruised mental health, and the snip‑snip of a son who didn’t get a royal title. The interview was the scoop of the year, but it also pulled a knife between fans and critics.
One Side: Cheers for the “Door‑Opening” Talk
Supporters fell into a jubilation crescendo for Meghan’s “oppression” expose. “Toxic Royalty? Sweetheart, bring it!” shouted many fans— they felt her courage rang louder than the gavel on a courtroom.
Opposite Side: “Narcissist” Naysayers
Not everyone was so dazzled. Critics dubbed her narcissist, and even her own sister walked on the air to give a brutal audit: “No empathy, no remorse, no shame.” That label is as sharp as a dagger, and experts caution against hasty mental‑health accusations.
But what does a narcissistic vibe actually look like, aside from the polished‑pointed words? Let’s tick the checklist.
Spotting the Narcissist in Your Own Life
Rebecca Weiler, LMHC, sums it up: narcissism equals selfishness done well— and the cost is others’ feelings.
- Self‑centered Attitudes – They’re all about them, “my how‑ever.”
- Emotional Shortcut – “I never know if you’re compromised.” They don’t bother hearing you out.
- Outright Gold‑to‑User – “I was born to do better.” They talk about gifts, but it is often a golden‑skin meta‑analysis of what keeps them up.
Picture it: it’s not just found in the palace; it lives in kitchens, at the office, or at your friend’s drama‑free lounge. The thing is, narcissists are relentless, and their sitcom‑style themes can get exhausting.
Next: A Guide on How to Tackle Them
Before you start a “narcissist survival guide” for the head, first know how you can sniff out one in your own living space. Keep your eyes on those classic red‑flag gestures— and then you’ll be ready for the step‑up.
Typical traits of a narcissist
Are Your Selfies Turning You Into a Social Media Shark?
Ever stumble upon a profile that looks like a Selfie Carnival? The first instinct is often the classic “Who’s the narcissist?” reaction. But before you slap that label on everyone, here’s a quick reality check.
What Does “NPD” Really Mean?
When pros drop the term Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), they’re not doing a casual jab. It’s a clinical diagnosis—just like Diabetes or Asthma—so it doesn’t fit neatly onto your friend’s online brag board.
Spotting the Real NPD Traits
In the mental‑health dictionary (DSM‑5), NPD shows up as a specific set of patterns. If you spot these, you might be dealing with the “real” kind.
- No Empathy: Tends to be all “I’m the story, not yours.”
- Spotlight Addiction: Constant craving for attention, like a spotlight that won’t dim.
- Inflated Self‑Worth: Proud that they’re the central character of the universe—no one else gets the plot.
- Troubled Relationships: (“I’m the only one who gets me”) drama is a common side‑kick.
How Common Is NPD?
According to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, roughly 6 % of adults may actually have NPD. So “hey, you’re a narcissist!” can be tossed around when the numbers line up—but generally, keep it general, not judgmental.
1. Sense of superiority
Getting Inside the Head of a Self‑Center
Picture a person who thinks the whole world revolves around their own drama. That’s the hallmark of a classic narcissist. They’re riding high on the entitlement train—and that train never stops.
Why Do They Think They’re the VIP?
- Top of the Family Chart – They’re always scrolling to the top slot, no matter where they actually sit in the family tree.
- Innate Claim to Glory – Entitlement isn’t something they pick up on a hobby; it’s baked into their DNA.
Adults? Sure. Kids? Even More Sassy
It isn’t just a middle‑aged phenomenon. Even the toddlers can start showing an early dash for “first place.” Parents notice those early “I’m the best” nods. It’s a sign that the entitlement spark is turning on early.
Bottom Line
When you come across someone who waves an “it’s my life” flag, you can usually bet the ENTITLED nature is solid, no matter the age or family position.
2. Urge to control everything
Why The Control‑Obsessed Think the World Should Be Their Plaything
They’re born with a built‑in “I’m the boss” switch.
Control doesn’t feel like power – it feels like proof that they’re worth it.
The Entitlement Engine
- Always first in line: From the breakfast table to the office, they’ll have the first pick.
- “If I say so” is the unofficial Oscars line in most conversations.
- Their mind‑set works like a never‑ending vending machine: “No, I’ll grab it.”
What Happens When the Rest of Us Try to Take a Cue?
Their sense of entitlement means every request is met with a “Why would you ever hope for anything else?” disappointment. Basically, they liven up a room with a tug‑of‑war stance so they can keep pulling at the reins.
Bottom Line: Let the spotlight light up
Because for them, it’s all about putting their name on the marquee. Until then, they’ll keep stewing in that relentless need to steer the ship — even when it’s going off course.
3. Blame others for their loss
Why Some People Love to Play the Blame Game
Ever met someone who feels a thrill at the mere act of pointing fingers? Those folks are the masters of the blame‑shift tuba. They’ll take the stage when the stars align and sing their own praises, then pivot to a silver‑slick “you’re the one!” routine whenever life throws a curveball.
What They Do
- Blame‑Borne: When something falls apart, they’ll point the finger at anyone but themself – quick‑silver, not to mention a little speedy.
- Victory‑Grabbers: If the outcome is favorable, they’ll instantly become the hero of the story, even if they had barely nudged the wheel.
- Defensive‑Mode: When criticism lands, they’ll spin the arc in the opposite direction, blaming external factors or other people – the classic “it’s not me” logic.
How It Sounds
Picture someone at a party, exclaiming, “I’ll save us all from the disaster! Thank you for letting me get away!” and then, a week later after a mishap, flipping the drama ball: “I think you’re the problem, not me.” It’s a cozy pattern that can be fun on stage, but a little fuzzy in real life.
Bottom Line
Living with a forward‑backward mindset can keep the spotlight on them, but it’s a slippery slope full of drama. If you want to play it honestly, try keeping the blame in a clear, fixable pile of “I can change this” instead of flipping it onto other people.
4. Show lack of empathy
Who These People Actually Are
Ever met someone who’s practically a one‑person “I’m the center of the universe” show? Those folks are the living definition of selfishness. They treat everyone else like a side‑kick in their personal highlight reel.
The Classic Playlist of Traits
- Self‑Involved: Their biggest fan? Them. Conversations pivot effortlessly back to their life story.
- Empathy ??: Imagine trying to catch fish in a desert—easy peasy for their empathy muscles.
- Understanding? What’s that?: If it’s not about their feelings, it’s probably not on the radar.
- Perspective Cheats: They usually think their own perspective is the only valid one—no exam version for other views!
Why It Feels Like a Daily Show
When you’re around them, it’s a comedy of misaligned emotions: someone mentions their favorite dog, and they start explaining the intricacies of their own latte art technique.
The Consequence Matrix
- Social Echo Chambers: They worship their own voice, creating tight‑knit little circles where other voices get lost.
- Relationship Rollercoasters: Conversations often feel like a whirlwind, then a plateau—where the plateau is the last time anyone feels heard.
- Misread Signals: Since they’re all about themselves, they might see someone’s kindness as self‑promotion—a classic “I’m simply being generous” vs. “Encore, more of that” confusion.
Bottom Line
In a nutshell, one of the biggest challenges with this tribe is the lack of empathy—a component that turns inclusive, respectful friendship dreams into a “self‑reflective mirage.” They’re good at being the talk of the town, but not so good at listening to the crowds. And that, dear reader, makes them memorable, not necessarily beloved.
5. Have a fear of rejection
Spotting the Fearful Narcissist
Ever met someone who feels like a clown on the brink of a circus show? That’s probably a narcissist – constantly on edge, terrified of being made fun of or dismissed.
Why They’re a Bit Trust‑Ricky
Because they’re always watching every word, a little like a guard dog that thinks the neighbor’s grass might be a snack. Trust? That’s a hard sell for them.
Quick “Fear” Checklist
- Obsessively checks how others respond.
- Turns trivial comments into a major crisis.
- Avoids deep conversations; they’d rather keep a safe distance.
Bottom Line
Gardening away trust is their trade‑secret. If you’re around them, just keep your jokes gentle and—oh, and maybe bring a shield.
6. Believe in being perfect
Living With a Self‑Obsessed Family Member: A Handy Guide
Why it’s a Mess
If family life feels like a never‑ending reality show where everything has to be flawless, chances are you’ve got a narcissist in the house. They expect:
- All day, every day – interactions that line up with their fantasy.
- Perfection in you, in the kids, even in trivial events.
- An unshakable belief that life should unfold exactly as they see fit.
Reality, as we know it, is a series of surprises, failures, and awkward moments. Setting impossible standards not only puts pressure on everyone but also creates constant chaos.
Spotting the Red Flags
Keep an eye out for these classic signs in your loved ones:
- They call out your mistakes like they’re doing a stand‑up routine.
- Every argument ends with “you’re just too hard.”
- They constantly claim that you’re not seeing the “real” situation.
- They derail conversations with their own drama, even to talk about the weather.
How to
1. Set Boundaries (and stick to them)
Map out the topics that are off the table. For example, “ I’m not discussing my personal life with you.” Clip a “no” stamp on any detail that feels overstepping.
2. Stay Calm and Cool
Don’t let them provoke you. Keep a mantra handy – maybe “I’m not the star in their drama.” Think of them like an annoying pop‑song that you’ll ignore.
3. Keep Your Goals Distinct
Don’t let their demands sabotage your own objectives. If you’re planning a vacation, make a separate calendar, separate vows, separate phone alerts.
4. Delegate Interaction
Have a trio of “talking buddies.” If you’re in a conflict, ask a neighbor or friend to act as a mediator; this reduces the constant tug‑of‑war.
5. Seek Professional Help
Consider family counseling or therapist‑led workshops. Sometimes you need a neutral voice to untangle the mess.
Take a Breath, Build Resilience
Remember, you’re not responsible for smoothing out the narcissist’s need for perfection. Your peace matters. By setting a rhythm, clarifying expectations, and maintaining emotional distance, you free yourself from needless stress.
Take charge of your narrative. Goodbye, over‑dramatic bubbles. Hello, life that doesn’t have a script written by someone else.
How to deal with a narcissist family member
1. Don’t call them a narcissist
Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder
First off, let’s be real: those with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) rarely look inward. They’re so busy proving you’re the real problem that any sort of reflection on their own quirks is usually off the table.
What They Don’t Do (and Why You Should Prepare)
- Ignore constructive feedback – give them a piece of cake and watch it be tossed aside.
- Refuse to change – the idea of shifting behavior is about as appealing to them as a dentist appointment for a cat.
- Seek a healthier relationship pattern – they’re too busy starring in their own drama.
Your Strategy (With a Touch of Humor)
Give them a choice instead of a directive:
- “Would you rather talk about how you feel or decide we’ll cut the drama tonight?” – it’s liberating for them to decide the topic.
- Offer a simple retreat: “Let’s walk through this in a coffee break – no crier’s corner.”
- Keep your tone light: “Sure, we could talk in a room full of mirrors.”
When you drop an idea like a gentle seed, they’ll either reject it outright or nod with a halfhearted shrug. Either way, you’ve planted a thought. Over time, that seed may grow into a real change or at least give you a clear breakaway line.
Key Takeaway
Play the “suggestion” game, not the “you must change” game. If they pick the light option, you’re on the right track. If they dodge, you’ve earned a small ally in yourself – a little victory to keep going.
2. Focus on you and your choices
Cutting the Narcissist: A Quick Guide to Reclaiming Your Energy
Surrounding yourself with a narcissist can sap your morale and spark pointless self-doubt. The trick? Trim your time with them and fling that extra energy toward the things you actually enjoy.
Why You Should Bypass the Bad Vibes
- Guard Your Sunshine: If someone leaves you feeling blue, it’s best to steer clear. Your happiness is on the line.
- Own Your Choices: Having options in the face of negativity can lift your spirits and let stress slip away.
- Redirect Your Focus: Allocate more minutes to hobbies, friends, or personal growth—anything that makes you feel alive.
Practical Steps to Cut the Drain
- Set Clear Boundaries: Decide how much contact is healthy—whether it’s a “yes, but no” approach or a complete “no” period.
- Declutter Your Calendar: Remove any meetings or invites that might bring you into close proximity with the narcissist.
- Lean Into Positivity: Make space for uplifting activities—exercise, creative projects, or nights out with genuinely supportive friends.
- Give Yourself Permission: Let it be okay to step away, to say “I’m not following your drama hub-bub.”
Remember, you’re not obligated to hang around someone whose presence leaves you feeling like a battery on negative power mode. Choose joy, choose boundaries, and let your life get that much lighter.
3. Speak for yourself
Navigating the Narcissist Nook
Ever find yourself orbiting someone who thinks the world is a pure reflection of their own image? That’s the common coaching reality for people grappling with a narcissistic family member.
1. The Empathy Gap
Imagine a person who’s hardwired to ignore others’ feelings—yeah, that is the term. This makes them a bit of a comfort artist who truly loves watching others swirl, squirm, and question their own sanity.
2. Why Your Reactions Matter
Think of your reaction like a pizza topping—do not add the extra cheese if you’re not ready to share the plate yet. Showing annoyance or irritation supplies them with extra fuel, so keep your cool and avoid feeding the flame.
3. Want to Keep Them In Your Circle?
- Speak up. No, not with a scream, just let them know what you’re feeling.
- Stay calm. Think of a zen level—serenity is your secret weapon.
- Keep it gentle. You’re writing a peace treaty, not launching a war.
Quick Tips to Keep the Relationship on Track
- Set boundaries. “No, you’re not the sole documentary of my life.”
- Focus on self-care. Because feeding yourself with love beats feeding them with drama.
- Choose your battles. Let them know you’re too busy to play the drama king’s king.
It’s tough, but with the right approach, your best friend could stay—without the fireworks and the uneasy squirming.
4. Find a support system
When Narcissists Drain Your Battery
Ever feel like a battery that’s been charged too often by a snarky friend? That’s what hanging out with someone who’s got a narcissistic personality can do—you end up feeling emotionally exhausted. The trick is to plug yourself into a solid support network that will keep you from turning into a glass bottle.
Step 1: Bring Back the Old Crew
- Reboot those old friendships. A quick coffee or a meme exchange can do wonders.
- Invite people who actually care about you, not just what they can get.
- Keep the conversation light‑hearted—humor is your best friend.
Step 2: Organize Family Hang‑Ups
- Plan a family game night or a backyard barbecue. The goal? Share laughs, not drama.
- Get everyone to bring their favorite dish or story for a spontaneous vibe.
- Use this time to remind yourself that real connections feel like sunshine.
Step 3: Duct Tape Your Mind Away from Toxicity
Instead of being stuck in that toxic loop, channel your energy into stuff that genuinely uplifts you. Whether it’s a new hobby, a workout session, or a solo adventure, redirecting your thoughts keeps that emotional burnout at bay.
5. Understand when the person may need professional help
Narcissistic Personality Disorder: A Quick, Light‑hearted Guide
Ever met someone who thinks the world is built around them? Not sure if that’s a “great personality” or something a bit more complicated? The culprit might be Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)—a real mental‑health condition that can love a bit of drama more than anyone else.
Spotting the Signs
- They’ll brag about? well, everything—from lunch to life choices.
- When you say “No” for the second time, they’re ready to schedule an emergency intervention.
- They believe everyone’s a “devil” or “enemy.” Grounding reality becomes a daily workout.
Why They Vue About It
People with NPD often feel zero guilt and unbreakable confidence. Their brain is the ultimate “I’m the apple of everyone’s eye” factory . It’s not a casual self‑assessment; it’s a real insufficiency1 that creates rifts everywhere.
What to Do if It Feels Like a Bogeywoman
- Stay calm. Protect your sanity by setting firm boundaries—yes, you can say “no” and keep it no hard feelings.
- Try gentle communication. “I’m uncomfortable when you’re humiliating me; how can we keep a conversation normal?”
- For you and others, consider professional help. Therapists can be heroes, especially if you feel stuck in the loop.
When All Else Fails
If you feel like you’ve tried your best and the drama keeps brewing, drop a line to a mental‑health professional. Don’t underestimate the power of expert guidance; it’s better than playing the “how to bully 101” textbook.
Remember: You’re not alone in this. Seek help before you become the punch‑line. Let’s keep it cool, compassionate, and—20%—fun.
6. Don’t argue with them unnecessarily
Why Trying to Convince a Narcissist is Like Playing the Musical Chairs of the Self-Absorbed
Picture This: You Speak, They Eavesdrop, & You Surrender the Victory
Ever had a showdown with someone who thinks the world is a mirror? Then your best attempt to point out their misstep transforms into a solo performance of “I’m the hero, you’re the villain.” Someone with a narcissistic lens thinks you’re the backdrop to their masterpiece.
- The Mirror Man: They’ll spend an entire argument ensuring the lens on themselves never cracks.
- The Blame Game: Every squabble is a scoring—your fault, their triumph, you’re a tragic character.
- Victim Vibes All Day: “You pushed me, literally,” they’ll say. Spoiler: You’re barely the bump.
- Change? Mythic, Like Finding a Unicorn in the Bathroom – the only thing you can control is whether you let your ego up the stage.
So What Do You Do?
Use the SILENCE button instead of the “argue” button. It takes the drama, freezes the mood, and keeps you from getting the entire theater’s spotlight. If the show turns into a circus, grab a seat—no one will pull the exit ropes for you.
Bottom line: you can’t alter their thoughts—only swap the script you write for yourself.
7. Set boundaries
When a Narcissist Gets a Bit Too Close
Picture this: a person who thinks the world should revolve around them. That’s the classic narcissistic personality. They often become painfully self‑centered, treating your people and space like a personal buffet.
Typical Red Flags
- Entitlement over Your Stuff – “I should get a look at your laptop?” “Can I touch your phone?”
- Personal Space? More Like a Playground – Crosses a million invisible borders with a grin.
- Unsolicited Advice – “Here’s how you’re doing that wrong…” even though you never asked for help.
- The Credit Game – “Totally that masterpiece was my idea.” Even if you were the mastermind.
Why Setting Boundaries Matters
Cursing, waving a metaphorical flag, or politely asking them nicely can sound too warm. It works better to be crisp and firm. Trust yourself. If the lines fade, your peace will too.
Quick‑Fix Boundary Checklist
- Label the Territory: “Sorry, that’s mine. Don’t touch.”
- Speak Your Truth: “I feel uncomfortable when you invade my space.”
- Stick to It: Consistency is key. Let them know the rule’s non‑negotiable.
- Keep It Light, But Firm: Humor lessens tension, but let the reality be clear.
Bottom line: A narcissist’s ego can be big, but your calm and boundaries even bigger. Keep them tight, keep your peace!
8. Stop keeping them in the spotlight
Spotlight Lurkers & Their Family of Follies
Narcissists are the consummate show‑stoppers, hustling nonstop to keep the spotlight fixed on them. When they’re in the glare, you can feel yourself drifting away from your own dreams.
Why the Tension Happens
- They demand constant attention, squeezing space for your own voice.
- When the spotlight dims, the smoldering feeling of abandonment takes over.
What to Do—No More Sidestepping
- Speak up: Give them a clear, honest pulse on how their behavior feels like an emotional ghosting.
- Set firm boundaries—don’t let the ego swallow your own needs.
- Lean on support—friends, therapy, or a trusted confidant can help you navigate the chaos.
The Long‑Term Family Fallout
Even kids who feel doted on can grow into the very type of out‑of‑control personality that thrives in adult life. Raising kids under a narcissistic parent inflicts emotional and psychological damage that plagues them far into adulthood.
Bottom line: if you’ve been the child of a narcissist, you might outgrow into that same cycle—unless you consciously step away and rebuild your own self‑spotlight.
How narcissist parenting affects children
How Narcissist Parenting Can Leave Tiny Kids in the Dark
When a parent’s ego is larger than the family, let’s just say kids often get the short‑end of the stick.
Typical Signs Kids Feel Their Own Shadow
- Feeling Neglected: They’re the “extra” player in the game, not the star.
- Emotional Silence: Any need or plea gets faster than a high‑speed camera flash—unseen.
- Self‑Doubt Spiral: Babies learn to question their own pulse instead of trusting the dad or dad’s echo.
- Identity Loss: Picture‑perfect “handy‑man” becomes a prop, not a person.
- Look‑First Culture: A brain swap shows the “image” is King; feelings are a side‑kick.
- Image Obsession: Walking in a kiddie shoes sized for the parent’s ego.
- No Self‑Growth: There’s no “you” at the center of development—just a mirror for the narcissist’s reflection.
- Adult Fallout: Post‑traumatic stress, depressive waves, or anxiety storms are common in later life.
Same Story With Aunties, Uncles, and the Whole Clan
If a grand‑parent or family sidekick is playing the ego‑hero, the same pattern spills over. The kid gets caught in a second‑hand echo.
Being the Hero Instead of the “Hero Sandwich”
The path forward? Lead by example. Empathy beats the narcissistic voice loud and clear.
- Teach Empathy, Not Ego: Show that a hand‑off is more powerful than a high‑five.
- Early Intervention: Spot narcissistic vibes early; no need for a late‑night counseling session.
- Kids = Mirror: They mimic what they see. If you’re dry‑laughing over kindness, so will they.
- Adulthood Fixes Are Harder: It’s easier to shape a toddler into a heart‑felt adult than a grown‑up into a self‑centered storm.
In short, the less ego you build into the routine, the greater the chances for a happy, balanced adultoutcome in those early years. And that’s a win for everyone in the family circle.
