2. Losing respect.
The next thing the Covert Narcissist worries about is losing respect. Narcissists do not just desire respect, they demand it. Their ego cannot handle anything less, especially after working so hard on that fake image and fake persona, which is everything to them.
As a result, their fear of losing respect drives them to pay close attention to how people interact with them. They observe your facial expressions and pay close attention to not just what you say but how you say it.
If they spot the slightest change in the way you greet them or speak to them, especially your tone of voice, it will cause the Narcissist to think that you are about to be disrespectful towards them and they will become super defensive or keep their distance by going silent.
3. Their flaws or weaknesses are pointed out.
The third thing they worry about is others spotting their flaws or weakness. That is why whatever projects they undertake, they prefer to do it with someone else so that if it all goes pear-shaped, they can put the blame on them. Working with others can help the Narcissist to avoid taking responsibility. Narcissists do not like working alone, but they are happy to take all the praise when something is a success.
Also, if their flaws or weaknesses are spotted, it makes them open to critique. And because of their fragile ego, Narcissists hate being corrected, even if it is for their own good. That is why in public, they ensure that they are delivering what people want from them because the last thing they want is for someone to find fault.
So, this worry of theirs motivates them to represent themselves well in public to the best of their ability. They want everything they say and do to be accepted without complaint or critique.
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