The Empath and The Narcissist Have One Key Trait In Common: They Feel Things Very Deeply

Empaths and narcissists may seem like polar opposites at first glance. Empaths are sensitive, intuitive, and often deeply compassionate, while narcissists are typically characterized by self-centeredness, a lack of empathy, and a strong need for admiration.

However, beneath these surface-level differences, there are surprising commonalities that tie these two personality types together. Both often share childhood wounds and exhibit certain behaviors and traits shaped by their early experiences.

Here are five main points of commonality between empath and narcissist:

1. Childhood Wounds

Both empaths and narcissists often come from backgrounds marked by significant emotional wounds. These wounds typically stem from childhood experiences, where they might have faced neglect, criticism, or inconsistency in emotional nurturing. Empaths may develop their heightened sensitivity as a coping mechanism to navigate unpredictable environments and meet others' needs in an attempt to secure love and approval. Narcissists, on the other hand, might develop their grandiose self-image as a defense against feelings of inadequacy and vulnerability, constructing a façade to protect their fragile self-esteem.

2. Deep-Seated Self-Doubt

Despite their outward behaviors, both empaths and narcissists harbor deep-seated self-doubt. Empaths may struggle with feelings of inadequacy and a fear of not being enough, leading them to overextend themselves to please others. Narcissists, despite their apparent confidence, often have an underlying fear of being exposed as inadequate or unworthy. Their need for constant validation and admiration is a way to mask their internal insecurities and bolster their self-worth.

3. Struggle with Boundaries

Empaths and narcissists both tend to have difficulties with boundaries, though in different ways. Empaths often struggle to set and maintain healthy boundaries, leading them to absorb others' emotions and problems to their own detriment. This can result in emotional exhaustion and a loss of self-identity. Narcissists, conversely, often disregard others' boundaries, seeing them as obstacles to fulfilling their own needs. Their sense of entitlement can lead to manipulative or controlling behavior, infringing on the personal space and rights of others.

4. Attraction to Each Other

Interestingly, empaths and narcissists are often drawn to each other in relationships. Empaths, with their nurturing and caring nature, are often attracted to the charisma and confidence exuded by narcissists. They may feel a strong urge to heal or help the narcissist. Narcissists, on the other hand, are drawn to the empathy and attentiveness of empaths, seeing them as ideal sources of the admiration and validation they crave. This dynamic can create a cycle of dependency, with empaths giving and narcissists taking, often leading to unbalanced and unhealthy relationships.

5. Need for Healing and Growth

Both empaths and narcissists have a significant need for healing and personal growth. For empaths, this often means learning to prioritize their own needs and establish strong personal boundaries. It involves recognizing their patterns of self-sacrifice and finding ways to nurture themselves. For narcissists, the journey involves facing their insecurities and vulnerabilities, developing genuine self-esteem, and learning to empathize with others. Both paths require a deep level of self-awareness and a commitment to personal development.

While empaths and narcissists may appear to be on opposite ends of the emotional spectrum, their shared experiences of childhood wounds and similar underlying behaviors and traits reveal a complex connection between them. Understanding these commonalities can foster greater empathy and awareness, encouraging both empaths and narcissists to seek the healing and growth they need. By acknowledging and addressing their wounds, both can move towards healthier, more balanced lives and relationships.