If you recognize these 10 behaviors, you’re dealing with a low-key narcissist

Ever meet someone who seems pretty great but there’s just something not quite right?

They’re always the star of their own stories or they think they’re the best thing since Netflix?

Guess what? You might be dealing with a low-key narcissist.

These guys aren’t as obvious as the classic narcissists, but their behavior can be just as draining.

Let’s explore 10 behaviors that might help you spot a low-key narcissist in your life.

1. They’re Always the Hero (Or Victim) of Their Stories

One of the first signs you’re dealing with a low-key narcissist is the way they tell stories.

Ever notice how they’re always either the hero or the victim?

If they’re not saving the day, they’re the ones who’ve been wronged in some way.

They have a knack for twisting tales so they’re always at the center, often overshadowing others.

Why? Because it all comes back to that ego. They need to feel superior or seek sympathy to maintain their self-image.

If you notice this pattern, it’s a red flag that you might be dealing with a low-key narcissist.

2. They’re Experts at Everything

Ever met someone who seems to be an expert at everything, even topics they’ve only just heard about?

This could be a sign of a low-key narcissist.

These folks have a need to appear superior and smarter than everyone else around them.

Whether it’s about the latest tech gadget, a complex scientific theory, or even your own field of expertise, they always seem to know more than you do.

Sure, it’s great to have knowledge, but this kind of ‘know-it-all’ behavior can be exhausting and belittling.

It’s one thing to be informed and another to act like an encyclopedia that corrects everyone else.

If you find yourself feeling dumb after talking with them, it’s time to raise an eyebrow.

3. They Rarely Admit They’re Wrong

Another behavior that screams low-key narcissist is a stubborn refusal to admit they’re wrong.

In my own experience, I once had a friend who could never admit when they made a mistake.

Whether it was misplacing their keys or misunderstanding a movie plot, they always had an excuse or someone else to blame.

One time, we were discussing a book that we had both read.

Despite me pointing out the author’s clear intentions in the text, my friend insisted on their own interpretation.

Even when I showed them an interview where the author clarified the meaning, they brushed it off saying the author was “probably mistaken”.

This inability to admit they’re wrong, even in the face of clear evidence, isn’t just frustrating—it’s a sign of narcissism.

It’s all about maintaining their image of perfection and superiority.

4. They Lack Empathy

A key characteristic of a narcissist is a lack of empathy. They struggle to understand or share the feelings of others.

This doesn’t mean they can’t act empathetic – they can and often do, but it’s usually to maintain their image or manipulate others.

Empathy is one of the key traits that narcissists tend to lack.

This lack of genuine empathy can make their relationships feel superficial and transactional, as they often value people for what they can offer rather than who they are.

5. They Need Constant Praise and Attention

Another common trait of a low-key narcissist is their need for constant praise and attention.

It’s like they’re always on stage, performing for an audience.

This need stems from a deep-seated insecurity that they often hide very well.

We all have moments when we crave validation or reassurance. It’s human nature.

But for a low-key narcissist, this need is insatiable.

They thrive on compliments and admiration, and it often feels like nothing you do or say can ever truly satisfy them.

This can be emotionally draining for the people around them, as the narcissist’s need for validation often overshadows the feelings and needs of others.

If you’re constantly feeling like a cheerleader rather than a valued friend or partner, you might be dealing with a low-key narcissist.

6. They’re Always Comparing Themselves to Others

Here’s another behavior to watch out for: constant comparisons.

Low-key narcissists often compare themselves to others, and not in a healthy, self-improvement kind of way.

It’s usually about proving they’re better than everyone else.

Let me share a personal example.

I once had a co-worker who was always comparing our work. It didn’t matter what the task was – writing a report, giving a presentation, even organizing the office holiday party. In their eyes, their work was always superior.

For instance, after I gave a presentation that received positive feedback from our boss, instead of congratulating me, they immediately started talking about how their last presentation had more slides and more detailed information.

They couldn’t let someone else have the spotlight without trying to outshine them.

If you’re dealing with someone who always needs to one-up you or others around them, you might be dealing with a low-key narcissist.

7. They Can’t Handle Criticism

Low-key narcissists can’t handle criticism. At all. It doesn’t matter if it’s constructive feedback or a light-hearted joke at their expense; they take it as a personal attack.

The truth is, we all have areas where we can improve, and receiving feedback is a part of life.

But for a low-key narcissist, any form of criticism is seen as an assault on their perfect self-image.

They might react with defensiveness, anger or even play the victim. Some might give you the silent treatment or attempt to belittle you to deflect the criticism.

Their fragile ego just can’t handle the idea that they’re not perfect.

So if you’re walking on eggshells, afraid to voice your opinion or give feedback because of how they might react, it’s a classic sign you’re dealing with a low-key narcissist.

8. They Dominate Conversations

Another classic narcissistic behavior is dominating conversations.

Low-key narcissists have a knack for turning the spotlight onto themselves, no matter the topic at hand.

They’ll interrupt, talk over people, and often change the topic to something about themselves or their experiences.

Individuals who exhibit narcissistic tendencies, including dominating conversations, have a stronger physiological response to social attention.

Simply put, being the center of attention actually gives them a sort of ‘high’.

If you notice that your conversations with them often feel one-sided or you’re constantly being interrupted, it’s a sign you might be dealing with a low-key narcissist.

9. They Gaslight You

Now, this one’s personal because it’s something I’ve experienced first-hand.

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where the narcissist makes you question your own sanity or perception of reality.

It’s a common tactic used by low-key narcissists to maintain control and power in a relationship.

I remember once having a disagreement with a friend, who happened to be a low-key narcissist, about plans we made.

Despite me clearly remembering and even having text messages about the plans, they flat out denied it.

They insisted that I was misremembering or that I was trying to cause an issue.

This constant denial of reality left me questioning my own memory and judgment.

It’s a really unsettling feeling. If you ever find yourself doubting your own experiences or memories after interactions with them, it’s a major warning sign you’re dealing with a low-key narcissist.

10. They Manipulate You

The final sign, and probably the most damaging, is manipulation.

Low-key narcissists are masters of manipulation.

They use various tactics like guilt-tripping, feigning innocence, playing the victim, or even twisting your words to get what they want.

This isn’t just raw and honest; it’s painful.

Being on the receiving end of this behavior can be emotionally exhausting and damaging.

You might find yourself constantly second-guessing your actions or feeling like no matter what you do, it’s never enough.

Dealing with a manipulator can make you feel like you’re losing your sense of self.

If you notice this pattern of behavior, it’s crucial to protect yourself and consider seeking professional help.