7 Things Narcissistic Husbands Do and What They Mean

Marriage comes with its own set of challenges—even on the best days, you might find socks on the kitchen table or toothpaste in the shower.

But living with a narcissistic husband? That’s a whole different kettle of fish.

Here’s a look at seven classic things these partners do, what they really mean, and what you can do tonight to reclaim a bit of sanity in your household.

1. Always Right, Never Sorry

The narcissistic husband has a magical ability to transform every discussion, disagreement, or full-blown row into a one-man show where he’s the undisputed expert.

Burnt dinner? Clearly your fault for following the recipe. He’s late for dinner? The GPS was obviously wrong. He’s a walking, talking “I told you so” machine.

What’s behind all this? Deep beneath that bravado lies a fragile ego. Apologizing feels like a sign of weakness, which is kryptonite to him. Admitting fault risks shattering the carefully constructed image he’s got of himself.

Tonight, try this: Stop arguing about the small stuff. Instead, state your reality: “That’s not how I remember it.” Then hit him with the ultimate relationship judo move—let the silence do the talking.

Sometimes, refusing to engage is your best power play.

2. Your Feelings? What Feelings?

Ever told him you’re upset, only to have your emotions brushed off like lint on a suit jacket? “You’re too sensitive” or “You’re overreacting” sound familiar? With a narcissistic husband, emotional invalidation is a daily special.

He’s not doing this because he genuinely thinks you’re irrational (although he’ll insist he does). It’s a well-honed technique to keep the spotlight off himself and avoid dealing with anyone else’s needs or pain.

Tonight, instead of trying to convince him your feelings are valid, just honor them yourself. Phone a friend who gets it, journal, or give yourself a little treat that says, “Hey, I matter—even if he doesn’t act like it.”

3. The Grand Public Showman

Ever noticed how your husband morphs into the world’s most charming man when others are around? Compliments, jokes, gallantry—the works. Suddenly, he’s the life of the party.

But as soon as the audience leaves, you’re back to being invisible.

This isn’t just coincidence. Narcissists feed off public admiration. The world is their stage, and you’re often just the slightly weary stage manager.

If you’re tired of being his unpaid supporting actor, try setting some boundaries about what you will and won’t play along with in public. No need to roll over and smile through every act.

If something feels off, keep your reactions honest (but safe). You’re allowed to keep your dignity even if he’s busy polishing his own.

4. Emotional Blackmail, With a Twist

Ever feel like you’re being guilt-tripped, manipulated, or given the silent treatment for reasons that seem to change with the weather? Welcome to the narcissist’s toolbox, where emotional blackmail gets more use than the family barbecue.

This behaviour isn’t random. It’s about control. He wants to keep you guessing, on your back foot, and always working just a little bit harder to win him over.

The antidote? Recognize when it’s happening and make a conscious choice not to play along. If the silent treatment is his latest trick, take yourself out for coffee or watch a favorite show.

Don’t hand over your emotional keys just because he’s rattling the cage.

5. The “Me, Myself, and I” Routine

Here’s a classic: the conversation that always comes back to him. Your day at work? He’s faced worse. Your headache? You wouldn’t believe how much his back hurts. Even your birthday can turn into a celebration of his achievements.

This isn’t just bad manners—it’s a core feature of narcissism. Empathy is in short supply, but self-praise is endless.

For your own sanity, start carving out time with people who ask about you and actually wait for the answer. And at home, feel free to redirect: “That’s interesting, but I’d like to finish my story.” It’s not selfish to ask for a little airtime.

You’re not running a one-person fan club.

6. Gaslighting: Making You Doubt Your Own Mind

Ever found yourself questioning your memory, your judgment, or even your sanity after a chat with your husband? “I never said that.” “You’re imagining things.” “Everyone agrees with me.” Gaslighting is the narcissist’s signature dish.

It’s a brutal tactic designed to wear down your confidence and make you dependent on his version of reality.

Time to fight back with documentation. Keep texts, jot down conversations, or talk to a trusted friend about what’s happening. Your memory is just fine. A gaslighter’s power fizzles when you stop second-guessing yourself.

7. The Great Victim Olympics

When things go wrong, suddenly your narcissistic husband is the most wronged man on earth. Lost his job? His boss was jealous of his talents.

Argument at home? You’re always picking on him. Forgot your anniversary? If only life weren’t so hard for him.

Playing the victim lets him dodge responsibility and keep you focused on his feelings instead of your own needs. It’s a clever trick, but only if you buy into it.

Notice when the “poor me” routine starts. It’s okay to offer comfort, but don’t drop everything to fix his world—especially if it means side-lining your own feelings every time.

When Enough Is Enough

Living with a narcissistic husband is like playing a never-ending game of emotional Twister in a room full of banana peels. The rules keep changing, and you’re always the one left untangling the mess.

The good news? You’re not alone, and you’re not powerless. Boundaries, self-care, and outside support are your best weapons.

Consider couples counseling if he’s open to it, or individual counseling if he’s not. There’s nothing noble about sacrificing your well-being on the altar of his ego.

Tonight, do just one thing for yourself. Call a friend, go for a walk, read that book gathering dust on your nightstand.

You can’t control his narcissism—but you can start building a little more peace in your own corner of the world.

And who knows? Maybe tomorrow, you’ll find those socks on the kitchen table and just toss them in the laundry with a smile.

Or not. Either way, you’ve got this.