Another great article, thanks. Having emerged in 2020 from an abusive ten-year relationship, I can see how we exemplified the codependent and narcissistic dynamics you describe. I was the codependent one, always trying to do my duty better than before, in the hopes of avoiding future criticism and abuse.
Since I left, my ex has been working almost continuously on the "accomplishment of some impressive feat", like hiking the Continental Divide Trail (3000 miles), or skiing the Catamount Trail (300 miles), to name just a few of the things she's done.These feats really are impressive, and they're a continuation of the things she did in her 20s, like hiking the AT (twice) and the PCT. But these feats also seem like an attempt to regain a sense of self-worth that is severely wounded.
Another great article, thanks. Having emerged in 2020 from an abusive ten-year relationship, I can see how we exemplified the codependent and narcissistic dynamics you describe. I was the codependent one, always trying to do my duty better than before, in the hopes of avoiding future criticism and abuse.
Since I left, my ex has been working almost continuously on the "accomplishment of some impressive feat", like hiking the Continental Divide Trail (3000 miles), or skiing the Catamount Trail (300 miles), to name just a few of the things she's done.These feats really are impressive, and they're a continuation of the things she did in her 20s, like hiking the AT (twice) and the PCT. But these feats also seem like an attempt to regain a sense of self-worth that is severely wounded.