When a female narcissist realizes how much they underestimated someone and witnesses their success without her, their reaction can vary depending on the individual and the specific dynamics of the relationship. However, some common reactions and feelings that a female narcissist might experience include:
Ego Injury: Narcissists have a fragile ego, and discovering that they underestimated someone can be a blow to their self-image. It can trigger feelings of inadequacy and jealousy.
Envy and Jealousy: Seeing someone they once devalued or dismissed achieve success without them can evoke envy and jealousy in a female narcissist. They may feel resentful that they are no longer at the center of attention or benefiting from the other person's accomplishments.
Attempts to Reassert Control: Some female narcissists may try to re-enter the person's life or rekindle the relationship once they see their success. They might try to take credit for the person's achievements or insert themselves back into their life to regain control.
Invalidation and Gaslighting: In response to the person's success, the narcissist may attempt to invalidate their achievements, gaslight them by questioning their abilities, or belittle their accomplishments.
Seeking to Diminish the Success: Female narcissists might engage in smear campaigns or spread rumors to tarnish the person's reputation and minimize their achievements in the eyes of others.
Competing for Attention: If the narcissist is unable to dismiss the person's success entirely, they might try to outshine them or compete for attention by highlighting their own achievements.
Moving On to a New Target: Some narcissists may simply discard the person entirely and move on to find a new source of supply or a new person to manipulate and control.
It's important to recognize that a narcissist's reaction is primarily driven by their own self-interest and need for validation. They are not capable of genuine empathy or happiness for someone else's success. Their responses are often driven by their need to maintain a sense of superiority and control over others.
If you find yourself in a situation where a narcissist is reacting negatively to your success, it's essential to prioritize your well-being and protect yourself from their manipulative tactics. Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries is crucial to moving forward and thriving in your own life without being affected by the narcissist's behavior. If needed, seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist can be beneficial in navigating the aftermath of a relationship with a narcissist.