10 Sneaky Ways Narcissists Mask Themselves to Fool You

A common narcissist tactic is claiming they’ve been celibate for years, saying things like, “I haven’t been with anyone in three years,” to appear virtuous. This is especially true after a breakup or during a “break” in a relationship. They might say they were “too busy with work” or “too depressed” to date, but in truth, they were likely active with other partners. Narcissists rarely stay alone, so take these claims with skepticism.

4. The Trustworthy Persona

Narcissists will repeatedly ask, “Do you trust me?” or insist, “You can trust me!” to push you into believing they’re reliable. A trustworthy person doesn’t need to constantly proclaim it actions speak louder than words. One client shared how a narcissist pressured her to trust him quickly, getting angry when she said trust takes time. This impatience is a red flag. Narcissists move fast to avoid revealing their true selves, as they can’t sustain their act for long.

5. The Homebody Image

Narcissists often portray themselves as homebodies who prefer staying in, saying things like, “I’m just relaxing on the couch, playing video games, or reading a book.” Meanwhile, they’re likely out socializing or meeting other “supply.” One narcissist even sent a client a photo with a dating app icon visible, exposing his lie about being a homebody. Don’t fall for this, they’re rarely as low-key as they claim.