If narcissists had a rulebook, it would be filled with twisted, self-serving principles designed to manipulate, control, and maintain their grandiose sense of superiority. They don’t follow the same moral code as the rest of us; instead, they create their own commandments—rules that justify their selfishness, cruelty, and endless need for admiration.
Today, we’re pulling back the curtain and exposing The 10 Commandments of Narcissistic Self-Worship—the unspoken rules that guide every narcissist’s behavior.
1. Thou Shalt Always Be the Center of Attention
A narcissist’s worst nightmare? Being ignored. They demand constant admiration and validation, and if they’re not the focus of the conversation, they’ll find a way to steal the spotlight.
- If someone else is being praised, they’ll interrupt with their own “bigger” story.
- If they’re feeling overlooked, expect a dramatic outburst, a fake crisis, or a sudden charm offensive.
Why? Because in their world, they are the main character, and everyone else is just background noise.
2. Thou Shalt Never Accept Blame—Ever
Narcissists are never wrong (at least in their minds). If something goes wrong, someone else must be at fault.
- They’ll twist facts, rewrite history, and gaslight you into thinking you’re the one who messed up.
- If undeniable proof is staring them in the face, they’ll shift the blame onto circumstances, bad luck, or even you.
Apologizing is beneath them—because to admit fault would shatter their fragile ego.
3. Thou Shalt Manipulate Others for Personal Gain
Narcissists see people as tools—not as individuals with feelings, needs, or boundaries. Their relationships are purely transactional.
- Need something from you? They’ll love-bomb you with compliments and fake kindness.
- No longer useful? You’ll be discarded without a second thought.
To them, people exist for one reason: to serve their endless hunger for power, status, or admiration.
4. Thou Shalt Keep a Mask for Every Occasion
A narcissist is a master performer, switching personalities based on what benefits them most.
- Around new people? They’re charming, funny, and generous.
- Behind closed doors? They’re controlling, cruel, and demanding.
They tailor their behavior to manipulate their audience—because the only thing that matters is the image they project, not who they truly are.
5. Thou Shalt Never Allow Others to Outshine Thee
A narcissist cannot tolerate anyone being more successful, attractive, or admired than they are. If someone else starts shining, they will:
- Sabotage them—spreading rumors, withholding support, or downplaying their achievements.
- Hijack their moment—turning the attention back to themselves.
- Copy them—mirroring their style, ideas, or personality to regain control.
In their world, there’s only room for one star—and it’s always them.
6. Thou Shalt Rewrite Reality to Fit Thy Narrative
Truth is flexible for a narcissist. If reality doesn’t suit them, they’ll twist it to fit their preferred version of events.
- Did they hurt you? No, you’re just too sensitive.
- Did they lie? No, you misunderstood.
- Did they break a promise? No, you expected too much.
They gaslight, manipulate, and distort facts until you start doubting your own memories.
7. Thou Shalt Use Guilt and Fear to Control Others
A narcissist’s favorite tools? Guilt-tripping and fear-mongering.
- They’ll remind you of everything they’ve done for you to make you feel obligated.
- They’ll threaten to leave, withdraw love, or spread lies to make you afraid of losing them.
- They’ll make you feel selfish for setting boundaries or prioritizing your own needs.
Because as long as you’re emotionally trapped, you’ll keep playing by their rules.
8. Thou Shalt Play the Victim When Needed
Narcissists can switch between grandiose superiority and helpless victimhood in an instant—whichever gets them the most attention.
- If they’re caught doing something wrong, they’ll suddenly be the “real” victim.
- If someone else is suffering, they’ll find a way to make it about them.
Crocodile tears, dramatic monologues, and exaggerated sob stories are all part of their act—designed to manipulate your sympathy.
9. Thou Shalt Discard and Replace Without Remorse
A narcissist has no loyalty. The moment you stop serving their ego, you become disposable.
- Friendships, relationships, even family bonds—nothing is sacred.
- They will ghost, discard, or betray you without a second thought.
- And worst of all? They’ll have a replacement ready before you even realize you’ve been cut off.
Because to them, people aren’t partners or friends—they’re just stepping stones.
10. Thou Shalt Never Allow Others to Break Free
Narcissists hate losing control. If you try to escape their toxic grip, they’ll pull out every trick in the book:
- Guilt-tripping: “After everything I’ve done for you, you’re just going to leave?”
- Hoovering: Love-bombing you back into their trap.
- Smearing: Turning others against you to ruin your support system.
They don’t want you happy or independent. They want you trapped in their cycle forever.
Breaking Free from the Narcissist’s Rulebook
Now that you know their commandments, you hold the power.
Narcissists thrive in secrecy—but when you expose their patterns, you break their hold on you.
- See the signs: Recognize their manipulative tactics early.
- Set firm boundaries: And don’t let guilt, fear, or fake charm make you back down.
- Choose yourself: The best revenge against a narcissist is living a happy, fulfilled life without them.
Because once you stop playing by their rules, they lose the game.