The Difference Between Blaming Your Parents and Holding them Accountable.
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

The Difference Between Blaming Your Parents and Holding them Accountable.

In our journey of self-discovery and healing, it's crucial to understand the crucial difference between blaming our parents and holding them accountable. This blog post delves into the complex dynamics between parental actions and their impact on our lives. By validating our emotions and experiences while also taking ownership of our own feelings, we can navigate the path towards personal growth and create a healthier relationship with our past. Join us as we explore this transformative journey of understanding, healing, and empowerment.

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Toxic Forgiveness in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery (Hint: It’s not necessary)
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Toxic Forgiveness in Narcissistic Abuse Recovery (Hint: It’s not necessary)

The notion that forgiveness is a necessary step in healing from narcissistic abuse has always troubled me. It can feel dismissive and uncaring toward the person who has been wronged. While there are honorable approaches to forgiveness, I believe self-forgiveness is more important. Victims of narcissistic abuse often carry false beliefs about themselves, reinforcing their own unworthiness. By embracing self-forgiveness, we can release the burden of shame and guilt, change our belief system, and nurture self-compassion. It's not about forgiving the narcissist, but about reclaiming our own selfhood and healing.

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What if I Really Am Making it All About Me?
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

What if I Really Am Making it All About Me?

Have you ever been accused by a narcissistic parent of making everything about yourself? It's a common tactic employed by narcissists to avoid taking responsibility for their own actions. In this blog post, we delve into the defense mechanism of projection and how it impacts adult children of narcissists (ACONs). We address the concern of ACONs becoming narcissistic themselves and emphasize the importance of self-care in the healing process. Learn how to discern projections, reframe accusations, and reclaim your true self. It's time to prioritize your needs and embrace your authenticity.

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Exploring complex feelings towards your narcissistic parent: Anger, Compassion, Guilt.
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Exploring complex feelings towards your narcissistic parent: Anger, Compassion, Guilt.

Discover the intricate emotional landscape faced by adult children of narcissistic parents as they navigate the intertwined feelings of anger, compassion, and guilt. Uncover the reasons behind these complex emotions and gain insights into managing them effectively. Learn the importance of setting boundaries and embracing self-care while embracing your own needs and emotions. Find guidance in finding a balance between compassion and anger and alleviating unnecessary guilt.

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Coping with Maternal Narcissism: Logic vs. Fantasy
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Coping with Maternal Narcissism: Logic vs. Fantasy

Embark on a journey through the intricacies of coping with maternal narcissism, where the battle between logic and fantasy unfolds. Explore the traits of narcissistic mothers and the impact they have on their children's identities. Witness the struggle between the logical understanding of the situation and the emotional pull of fantasy. Delve into the world of covert narcissism and the challenges it presents for adult children. Uncover the presence of toxic guilt and its crippling effects. Find solace in the path towards healing, setting boundaries, and reclaiming your own identity. Step out of the constructed fantasy and embrace a life of authenticity and self-assertion. This blog post was published alongside others on the topic, available here.

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Why It’s Easy to Fall for Love Bombing
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Why It’s Easy to Fall for Love Bombing

Delve into the intricate dynamics of love bombing and its captivating effects in narcissistic relationships. Explore how love bombing preys on our desire for love and attention, creating an illusion of affection and connection. Understand the unique experiences of both romantic partners and children of narcissistic parents who fall victim to love bombing. Discover how to identify the patterns of love bombing and differentiate it from genuine displays of love. Listen to your intuition, recognize internal signals, and show yourself compassion as you navigate the intense emotions associated with love bombing. Ultimately, cultivating a strong and supportive relationship with yourself becomes the key to surviving and breaking free from narcissistic manipulation. Learn to trust your instincts and respond to your own needs. This blog post sheds light on the topic of love bombing and its impact, providing insights to help you protect yourself and regain control of your life.

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Covert Narcissists: Grandiosity in Disguise
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Covert Narcissists: Grandiosity in Disguise

Explore the deceptive nature of covert narcissism and the ways in which individuals exploit their victim status to maintain attention and control. Uncover the hidden desires for grandiosity that lie beneath the facade of helplessness and illness. Understand how covert narcissists manipulate others into catering to their needs while draining their emotional energy. Discover the dynamic of guilt and persecution that covert narcissists use to validate their victimhood and maintain control over relationships. Learn effective strategies for maintaining emotional distance, setting boundaries, and resisting the urge to rescue covert narcissists. Take back control of your own well-being and embrace a life free from the burden of fixing someone else's problems. This blog post sheds light on the intricacies of covert narcissism and provides insights to help you navigate relationships with greater ease and self-care.

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Why Do Adult Children of Narcissists Feel So Much Guilt?
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Why Do Adult Children of Narcissists Feel So Much Guilt?

Discover the intricate web of guilt woven by narcissistic parents and the profound impact it has on adult children. Uncover the manipulative tactics employed by narcissists to keep their sense of self intact and maintain control over their children's lives. Explore the distinction between healthy and toxic guilt, understanding how the latter stifles personal growth and perpetuates the cycle of manipulation. Gain insight into the unique challenges faced by adult children of narcissists in establishing and maintaining boundaries. Learn empowering strategies to overcome manipulation, recognize manipulation tactics, and prioritize your own emotional well-being. This blog post sheds light on the complexities of guilt experienced by adult children of narcissists, providing guidance and support for breaking free from the cycle of manipulation and reclaiming your sense of self.

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Did I Make That Up? (And other ways narcissists create self-doubt)
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Did I Make That Up? (And other ways narcissists create self-doubt)

Explore the unsettling world of self-doubt perpetuated by narcissists and the profound impact it has on individuals. Unravel the manipulative tactics employed by narcissistic parents to sow seeds of uncertainty and deny the validity of their abusive behavior. Gain insight into the complexity of narcissistic abuse, ranging from overt actions to subtle forms of manipulation. Discover the importance of trusting your perceptions, gut feelings, needs, and boundaries as sources of power in breaking free from the cycle of self-doubt. Learn to recognize manipulation patterns and embrace an inner truth-telling voice that validates your experiences. This blog post provides empowering strategies for overcoming self-doubt, reclaiming your emotional well-being, and embarking on a journey of healing from narcissistic abuse.

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Why Grieving May Be The Most Important Step Of Your Recovery
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Why Grieving May Be The Most Important Step Of Your Recovery

In this blog post, we explore the significance of grieving in your recovery journey, emphasizing its role in acknowledging and processing loss beyond the realm of death. By understanding why grief is essential and how it can help you face painful realities, you'll gain valuable insights into the healing process. Discover why avoiding grief may impede your progress and learn to recognize the signs of genuine grieving.

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Do They Know They’re Narcissistic?
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

Do They Know They’re Narcissistic?

Are narcissists aware of their own narcissism? Do they have the capacity to change? In this blog post, we explore these questions and shed light on the complex nature of narcissistic personality disorder. While some narcissists may claim to be self-aware, true change is rare. Understanding their inability to acknowledge their behavior is essential for navigating relationships with narcissistic individuals. By accepting this reality and focusing on personal growth, you can find freedom and make healthier choices. Read on to learn more.

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How to Know if My Parent (or Spouse) is a Narcissist: Six Clues
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

How to Know if My Parent (or Spouse) is a Narcissist: Six Clues

Discovering that a parent or spouse may exhibit narcissistic tendencies can be challenging. While it's important to understand their behavior, the crucial aspect lies in how it affects you and your relationships. This blog post offers valuable insights into identifying potential narcissistic behavior using six key clues. Trust your instincts, evaluate their impact on you, and prioritize your well-being. By recognizing and acknowledging narcissistic behavior, you can navigate relationships effectively and build healthier connections.

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The Five Ways Narcissists Keep You Feeling Stuck
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

The Five Ways Narcissists Keep You Feeling Stuck

Learn the insidious ways in which narcissists manipulate and control those around them, leaving them feeling trapped and helpless. From gaslighting to mood swings, demands, silent treatment, and victimization, narcissists employ a range of tactics to keep the spotlight solely on themselves. By understanding these behaviors, you can reclaim your sense of self and break free from their grip. Don't let the narcissist dictate your emotions and well-being any longer. It's time to regain control and prioritize your own needs and boundaries.

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What to Do When Your Boundaries Are Continually Crossed. (OR: Boundaries! Going once, going twice, GONE!)
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

What to Do When Your Boundaries Are Continually Crossed. (OR: Boundaries! Going once, going twice, GONE!)

Do you find yourself in a constant struggle with someone who repeatedly ignores or crosses your boundaries? Discover how to navigate this challenging situation. Whether it's a family member, friend, or loved one, understanding the significance of the relationship, assessing the extent of boundary violations, and implementing changes to protect yourself are crucial steps. In this blog post, we'll explore various strategies to handle boundary crossings, including scripts to express your needs assertively. Remember, prioritizing your well-being is key, and severing ties may sometimes be the healthiest choice.

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When Boundaries Feel “Selfish”
Hannah Alderete Hannah Alderete

When Boundaries Feel “Selfish”

Many of us struggle with setting boundaries due to the fear of being perceived as selfish. This blog post explores the misconceptions surrounding boundaries and offers insights into the importance of prioritizing our own needs. Discover how childhood experiences shape our relationship with boundaries and learn strategies to overcome the fear of disappointing others. By recognizing the significance of healthy boundaries, we can foster self-care, create stronger connections, and experience greater emotional well-being.

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