3. Gaslighting and Excuses
When their lies are challenged, narcissists will often gaslight their accusers, dismissing their concerns and making excuses. This tactic confuses the victim and shifts the blame away from the narcissist. For example, Holmes was known to provide convenient explanations when people questioned the inconsistencies in her company’s technology. If someone asked why they were drawing blood from a vein instead of using a finger prick, there would always be a reason — and the person asking would continue to buy into the lie.
Narcissists are masters of excuses, and they will twist any situation to ensure they are never at fault. Gaslighting is a favorite tactic because it makes the victim question their own perception of reality.
4. Refusal to Admit Defeat
Most people, when caught in a lie, will eventually give up and admit defeat. Narcissists, however, are notorious for doubling down, even when their lies have been exposed. Rather than acknowledging their wrongdoing, they will continue to defend their falsehoods or create new lies to cover their tracks.
Holmes, for instance, continued to promote her company even after being charged with securities fraud and facing criminal charges. She even suggested she would start a new company, completely disregarding the damage she had already done. This refusal to admit defeat is a hallmark of narcissistic behavior, as they cannot tolerate the idea of failure or loss of control.
Related: This is How You Crush A Narcissist Completely
7 Things Narcissists Do When They Feel Unobserved
Continue reading on the next page
Sharing Is Caring!
