Bruce Law Firm - May 2022

When the World Revolves Around Your Ex Tips for Divorcing a Narcissist

Narcissists never do anything wrong — at least, in their own minds. So, if you’ve started divorce proceedings against one, be prepared to fight. They certainly will, every step of the way. It’s their last-ditch attempt to maintain control over you, and giving in will only encourage them to push further. Everything is a game to a narcissist, and there’s nothing worse to them than losing. To “win” the divorce, they’re likely to extend their manipulative behavior by responding vindictively and trying to turn others against you. Narcissists are experts at baiting other people into lashing out. When they succeed, their victim ends up looking like the irrational and difficult one. That’s why we encourage our clients to eliminate any unnecessary communication with their narcissistic spouses. Leave the arguing to your lawyer. If you do need to communicate — for example, to coordinate your parenting schedule — don’t get dragged into debates or end up discussing your legal case. Many narcissists will attempt to

manipulate their ex into delaying the divorce proceedings. If they succeed, they won’t stop. Even when their requests sound reasonable, don’t give an inch because a narcissist will take a mile.

Many narcissists will also resort to threats, especially when they feel like they’re losing control. They can range from frightening to absurd. Though most threats are idle boasts, always document them, notify your lawyer, and contact the police if the threats become physical. Speaking of last-ditch efforts, a narcissist may also try to regain control by “love bombing” their ex. Even if you want to believe it’s true, your ex has not changed or become a better partner. Ignore their lies and stay away. Some narcissists will also threaten self-harm. While we take mental health issues seriously, narcissists will often weaponize a person’s compassion to gain an advantage or stall the case — anything they can do to win. A narcissist is unlikely to agree to mediation, and if they did, we’d probably advise against it. You also don’t want to face their wrath alone. Hire a divorce attorney who is well-versed in their underhanded tactics and knows how to combat them. Bruce Law Firm has years of experience with narcissistic spouses. We’ll be glad to review your case and help you get out from under their thumb once and for all.

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Mother’s Day Brunch Rainbow Frittata

And as important as it is to voice your own needs, it’s just as imperative to listen. So many divorcing people come into my office and tell me, “I feel like I’m talking into thin air.” Taking the time to hear your partner can make all the difference. You might not always see eye to eye, but you can’t resolve a problem unless you understand your spouse’s point of view. But if you are trying to listen, communicate, have empathy, and overall be a good partner, and your spouse is not responsive, then you should seriously consider your life and whether you are happy. I’d urge people to not rush into a status change until they’re sure it’s what’s right for them. I didn’t intend to wait so long to get married, but waiting ultimately helped me realize that marriage is what I genuinely wanted. The same rings true for a divorce, make sure you think about whether that path is truly right for you. And so before you walk down the aisle, or move forward with a divorce, think about what marriage means to you and be confident that you’re ready for whatever path you take. Know that whatever path you take and decision you make, is yours.

Inspired by EatingWell.com

Ingredients

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Nonstick cooking spray 1/4 cup sweet potato, diced 1/4 cup yellow pepper, diced 1/4 cup broccoli, chopped

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Basil, thyme, salt, and pepper, to taste 1/2 avocado, pitted, peeled, and thinly sliced

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Cherry tomatoes, halved Sriracha hot sauce (optional)

8 eggs

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 F and coat a cast-iron skillet with nonstick cooking spray. 2. In the skillet, cook sweet potatoes, yellow pepper, and broccoli over medium heat until soft. 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. 4. Pour egg mixture into skillet with vegetables. Don’t stir but instead use a spatula to lift the edges of the egg mixture until it is evenly distributed. 5. Transfer mixture to oven. Bake for 5 minutes or until the dish sets. 6. Top with avocado and tomatoes. Drizzle Sriracha on top (if desired).

Wishing you much love and happiness,

–Attorney Sarina Sabatino

561-810-0170 • 3

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