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Being in a relationship means taking care of each other equally. But sometimes one person cares more about themselves than you… Here’s how to spot a self-centered personality, according to a psychologist.
Has the early romance given way to a routine where your partner cares less about you (and much more about himself)? Be careful, if he turns out to be self-centered, this can make the relationship difficult and frustrating. To find out, here are 7 signs given by a psychologist, which can help you take stock, and put your relationship on the table.
He (or she) has a constant need for validation
Being in a relationship with a deeply self-centered person often involves a need for constant validation of their feelings, thoughts, and accomplishments. Self-centeredness can manifest as an insatiable thirst for praise or affirmation in order to feel important and valued, often at the expense of the emotional well-being of others. However, this constant demand for validation can leave you feeling exhausted and undervalued as you push your own emotional demands aside.
Remember that you are not responsible for other people’s happiness or self-esteem. In a healthy relationship, validation is a shared effort, not a one-sided demand.
He (or she) does not shine with his empathy
Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. It fosters connection, mutual understanding, and compassion.
But if you’re in a relationship with someone who is deeply self-centered, you may notice that they have a hard time understanding your experiences or emotions. Conversations will quickly turn to their own interests, struggles, or accomplishments, leaving little room for your input or feelings. A lack of reciprocity and listening that can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration.
His problems overshadow yours
Another telltale sign of a deeply self-centered person is their tendency to overshadow your problems with their own.
In every conversation, self-centered people tend to quickly put their concerns aside to refocus the conversation on themselves. Again, this pattern can leave you feeling ignored. It’s important to have a balanced exchange where both parties can share their concerns and receive empathy.
An inability to celebrate your successes
A truly self-centered person will also have a hard time celebrating your successes. This can manifest itself in a variety of ways: they may minimize your accomplishments, talk about their own accomplishments, or express jealousy instead of joy.
This lack of shared happiness can create a sense of disconnection and make you feel unappreciated for your accomplishments.
He (or she) generally refuses to compromise.
A relationship with a deeply self-centered person can often feel like a one-way street, especially when it comes to compromise. They may insist on getting what they want, ignoring your needs or preferences. This unwillingness to compromise can be subtle but deeply damaging, making you feel invisible and undervalued.
He (or she) interrupts you frequently
Frequent interruptions during conversations are a subtle but significant sign of self-centeredness. The person has developed a habit of interrupting you in mid-sentence or abruptly changing the subject to something that interests them more. This behavior suggests a lack of respect for your thoughts and feelings, and a concern for their own.
A (general) lack of interest in your life
Finally, a deeply self-centered person may show a lack of genuine interest in your life, seeming disinterested in your experiences, ideas, or feelings unless it directly involves or benefits them. This lack of curiosity can make you feel insignificant or unimportant.
Time to assert your needs
Have you confirmed that your other half only thinks of themselves? All is not lost, and the advice is not necessarily to run away. But a reassessment is necessary. You deserve to be in a relationship where your life is valued and your experiences are shared with genuine interest and compassion.
So it’s time to delve deeper into your own needs and desires and put them back at the center of your relationship as well. Discussing your feelings openly, or even starting couples therapy, can help you find balance again. If not, it may be helpful to reevaluate your relationship.