Are You Working for a Narcissist? How to Protect Yourself & Plan Your Exit

Are You Working for a Narcissist?

Protect Yourself & Plan Your Exit

If your boss takes all the credit, rarely admits mistakes, has unrealistic expectations of everyone but themself, talks down to you, you might be dealing with a narcissist. Here’s how to manage your sanity while planning your next move, because your only option is escape, you WILL NOT CHANGE THEM.

First- ID'ing a Narcissist:

Gaslighting 101 🔥 Ever feel like you’re being told something didn’t happen the way you remember? Narcissists are pros at Gaslighting. Don’t second-guess yourself.

All About Them

As Bosses, they love to shine. Good news- they’re front and center. Bad news- all on you. Can’t handle constructive feedback, but dish it out and expect unwavering loyalty - narcissist.

Unrealistic Expectations

They’ll ask for the impossible and expect it yesterday. Try to explain why something isn’t possible? Be prepared to be talked down to or made to feel like you’re just not good enough (you are, they’re just impossible to please).

Lack of Empathy

Feeling burnt out or overwhelmed? They won’t care. They struggle with empathy, so if your well-being is being placated or full on disregarded - narcissist.

Chronic Blame Shifting

Mistakes are never theirs, right? If your boss routinely points fingers to avoid taking any responsibility, glaring red flag.

Some tricks for surviving:

Document EVERYTHING

Keep a detailed record of your contributions, because when the blame game starts, you’ll want those receipts and protection. Helps negotiating your exit package too, because trust me, you’ll need one.

Set Boundaries!!!!

Be clear about your capacity (working through weekends doesn’t count). Unrealistic demands don’t mean you have to overextend yourself. Set clear limits, protect your energy.

Seek Support

Find your workplace allies and maybe talk to HR. A good vent session goes a long way in reminding you it’s not your fault.

Prioritize Mental Health

Toxic work environments wear you down. Make self-care a priority (yoga, THERAPY, or that Netflix binge—no judgment).

Plan Your Exit...ASAP

Start planning, have an exit strategy. When you’re ready, a coach can help you negotiate your exit package—severance, benefits, smooth transition—so you leave on your terms. A good HR leader can also be invaluable in helping navigate tricky waters.

Working for a narcissist is exhausting, but with the right tools (and a hundred deep breaths), you can protect your mental health and make a smooth exit when you’re ready.

Remember: you deserve better, and there’s always a healthier environment waiting.

Ready to make your exit from a toxic work environment?

If you're dealing with a narcissistic boss and need support navigating your next steps, book a 1:1 session with me. I’ll help you protect your mental health, set boundaries, and plan a smooth exit strategy so you can move on to a healthier work environment.