🚧 Protecting yourself from a narcissist is essential for your emotional well-being. Here are some effective strategies to set boundaries and avoid manipulation:

1. **Know Your Boundaries**: Clearly define what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Communicate these limits assertively. 🛑

2. **Stay Calm**: Narcissists thrive on emotional reactions. Keep your composure to avoid fueling their manipulation. 😌

3. **Limit Personal Sharing**: Don't divulge personal information that can be used against you. Keep conversations surface-level. 🌊

4. **Practice Assertiveness**: Be direct and confident in your responses. It's okay to say "no" without justification. ✊

5. **Seek Support**: Surround yourself with understanding friends or professionals who can offer guidance and validation. 🤝

6. **Recognize Manipulation Tactics**: Be aware of gaslighting, blame-shifting, or guilt-tripping, and call them out when they occur. 🎭

7. **Prioritize Self-Care**: Engage in activities that promote your mental health to reinforce your resilience. 🧘‍♀️

Remember, establishing boundaries isn’t selfish; it’s a necessary step to maintain your mental health and peace. You deserve to feel safe and respected in all your relationships. 💖