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Athleisure Mag™ | Athleisure Culture

ATHLEISURE MAG™ | Athleisure Culture
  • FITNESS
  • Food
  • Beauty
  • Sports
  • Travel
  • Athleisure Studio
  • Athleisure List
  • Athleisure TV
  • THIS ISSUE
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AM JAN MISSION TO LOVE WITH SUSAN TROMBETTI-1.jpg

MISSION TO LOVE WITH SUSAN TROMBETTI

January 20, 2018

When one holiday ends, we move onto the next one and during this time of year, Valentine's Day creates a mixture of emotions from romance, inspiration, anxiety and apprehension. There are those looking for love and others who are in it, but are assessing where they are in their journey.

When we realized that we had the opportunity to talk with Susan Trombetti, Matchmaker and CEO of Exclusivematchmaking.net - we wanted to ask all the questions that we had about her
job in finding love for others, assessing our relationships, as well as tips regarding Valentine's Day. Of course, you'll want to use this information beyond the day of love!

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background and how you became a matchmaker?

SUSAN TROMBETTI: I owned a skip tracing and asset investigation company. During my time doing investigations, I worked with banks mostly liquidating fraudulent portfolios. One of my specialties is my background in pursuing people that commit identity fraud. Since I have the same skill set as a private investigator, individuals would ask for little favors even though I didn’t do domesticate types of assignments. A little old lady came to me and asked me to find her long lost love from the war when they were together as lovers in Paris over 50 years before. I found him that night and reconnected them. The man had never married after all those years. He said "there has never been anyone else”. When the economy slowed down, good people couldn’t get loans, much less fraudulent people. I had time to think what I wanted to do and not just go through the motions of the investigation business. I decided to become a matchmaker and bring my skills set to the table to do backgrounds on the matches. It comes in handy when you can figure out if someone is lying about their age or marital status. I deal with very wealthy people and they can hire me just to vet the person before they let them in their social circle. I am a matchmaker and relationship investigator.

AM: What is a matchmaker and what role do you have in connecting people to come together to find their match and eventually love?

ST: Matchmakers are headhunters for love. I recruit at a very high level to find someone they match with for their particular needs. I help them get clear on the difference between what they need and want, how to break bad dating habits and patterns that are holding them back, and teach them how to connect. The back story to what I do is important to ensuring that the match flourishes into a lasting relationship.

AM: Are there any celebs that you can share that you have worked with?

ST: I have worked with several, but they are confidential. One I hit on the first introduction and they had a baby by the time they were together a year. They just ran off into the sunset. It was
amazing.

AM: What is the process like in taking on someone who is looking for love - what kinds of questions do you ask to see if they are a match to work with you as well as whether they are truly open for the process?

ST: I ask them what they are looking for to see if it’s superficial. There are only a few criteria I will work with and the rest is just being too picky. I ask about the former relationships to see
if I can identify patterns or problems that are holding them back from finding love. I look to make sure they are commitment minded and truthful.

AM: For those not using a matchmaker, what can they keep in mind when they are prepared to get back out there?

ST: Realize you aren’t perfect. Things have changed. Don’t settle for the first person you meet and go exclusive before 90 days. Just wait. You could save yourself so much heart ache and wear and tear on your emotions.

AM: Finding love is really about being comfortable in being vulnerable with someone due to established trust - what advice or checklist do you have that we can keep in mind (even for those that are in a relationship and need to make sure it's in a good place)?

ST: That’s really a good point. Remove the walls and try to be a little more open, have a little more fun, and invest more time than a cup of coffee when meeting someone. Realize that what
you generally think of as chemistry is just lust. Give chemistry time to develop.

AM: Sometimes the adage of, "if it's too good to be true, it probably is" does take place. How can we be on the lookout for someone who seems good on paper, but has red flags that pop up that we need to be aware of?

ST: By trusting your gut when you meet the wrong person and not continuing if you feel there are red flags. Also, realize what is truly necessary in a relationship and base what you are looking for on that and not where they went to school or their job.

AM: As a matchmaker, it appears that your role is on the front end of obtaining a relationship; however, with your clients - how involved do you stay in the process as it progresses?

ST: Completely involved. They need to think of me like their best friend or we will get nowhere fast. If we don't match, I probably can't match you because I need to understand you in order
to spot your match.

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AM: To find the partner that is your best fit, is there a mental checklist that we should use or refer to whether we are looking or believe that we have found that person?

ST: You need to not have a checklist at all. Toss your list. Chances are it’s holding you back. Prepare yourself to observe over time how someone treats you, loves you, and that their actions meet up with their words.

AM: Why do people cheat and can you break down common reasons for men vs women?

ST: People cheat for a number of reasons. Women tend to cheat when they feel they aren’t appreciated and some times men cheat when they don’t feel valued by the woman. They look for validation elsewhere. Women may even cheat more than men at this point. People cheat to stroke their egos, they cheat because they don’t want to end the relationship they are in, they cheat because they are serial cheaters, and they cheat because of opportunity. They also cheat when it’s just a one time mistake. There are people that are cheating emotionally and that’s worse a lot of time.

AM: Sometimes matches don't work even when it seems like it should. Have you had clients that were in a long term relationship (whether they simply lived together or married) that you matched that you were involved in transitioning them to the next relationship? Is there an assessment that is made in terms of realigning their goals to prepare them for the next one and what are tips that you provide that those reading can use in their take away to finding their partner?

ST: No I haven’t had that happen. I think in general if you break up and there are no fatal flaws, you should find away to stay together and work it out in the absence of fatal flaws if you both want to do so. You are only going to meet someone else and there are always challenges to work through. Are you better with the one you are with, or better without them? Do they respect you, do they love you, and will they put forth the effort to reconnect? Stick it out; however, it doesn’t take 2 people as we have been told to make a relationship go wrong. It only takes one that wants out. You can’t do anything when one person wants out. When moving on to the next person if you must, make sure you are emotionally over the ex. Most people ruin a lot of their potential relationships out there when moving on too fast. Everyone is hung up on someone whether it’s real or in your head. Clear that out first.

AM: How can you ensure that you and your partner are connected especially those that are power couples?

ST: By devoting time to each other and TLC no matter what. Those little couple rituals go a long way and act as glue to hold the relationship together.

AM: As a matchmaker, what is the significance of Valentine's Day and how can we infuse it into every day with our loved ones?

ST: Valentine’s Day is a fun, romantic day. It isn’t the end all be all. You celebrate your love all year, but on this one day, it’s a time to stop and have a little romance and flirtation whether you are in a relationship or not. Just have fun! Flirt with your partner if you have one; flirt with the doorman if you don’t.

AM: As someone who loves love - can you share places in NYC that are great sources of feelings of love whether they are restaurants, bars, parks etc?

ST: I think the Boathouse in Central Park and Tavern on the Green are great spots, but also there are just so many. The top of the Empire State Building can be so romantic if you believe the hype behind An Affair to Remember. I can’t say I have only one favorite romantic spot, but these are some of my favorites. Walking through the city staring at the tree at Xmas and skating is so romantic. I think just driving into the city at night looking at all the buildings lit up and seeing the Statue of Liberty is magical.

Read more from the Jan Issue and see Mission to Love with Susan Trombetti.

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In Wellness, Wellness Editor Picks, Style, Relationships, Lifestyle, Magazine, Jan 2018 Tags Mission to Love, Susan Trombetti, matchmaker, Matchmaker, ExclusiveMatchmaking.net, relationships, love, NYC
Comment
SHOT AT 575 PARK AVE #1507 | PHOTOGRAPHY Paul Farkas | STYLING Kimmie Smith | MUA Kat Osorio | HAIR Lea DeLoy | NAILS M&A Beauty Nails |

SHOT AT 575 PARK AVE #1507 | PHOTOGRAPHY Paul Farkas | STYLING Kimmie Smith | MUA Kat Osorio | HAIR Lea DeLoy | NAILS M&A Beauty Nails |

MAI TIME WITH JEANNIE MAI

May 31, 2017
AM MAY MAI TIME WITH JEANNIE MAI-2.jpg

Our issues are always filled with our faves and range in various areas that we are intrigued and enlightened by. We've been fans of Jeannie Mai ever since she appeared on the Style Network's "How Do I Look"? Her approach to making all women feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin is such a refreshing one in an industry that is not known for embracing these values.

We had the chance to hangout with Jeannie and shoot her cover at NYC's 575 Park Avenue while finding out more about her style career, being a fashion correspondent as well as being one of the co-hosts of FOX's The Real. 

ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us about your background as we remember you first from your days on Style Network 'How Do I Look' and your use of 'wearapy'. Share with our readers what wearapy is.

JEANNIE MAI: My mom taught me that my style is my business card. After I graduated high school I was teaching women in my hometown of San Jose on how to dress for their body type and helping celebrities perfect their makeup for the stage. I knew my message to brand your beauty needed to be taught to millions, so I moved to LA to promote that message. I was honored to take on being the host of "How Do I Look" and began teaching my philosophy about "wearapy" - the idea that you can change your opportunities from the outside in. 

AM: We know that you started as a MUA. Share your path from transitioning from a Celebrity MUA, to a Stylist to an on air personality.

JM: Makeup is the most inexpensive tool you can use to transform your image. Again, my mom was a key player in teaching me all the power that comes in owning what's most unique about me. I marketed myself well throughout the Bay Area as a makeup artist and stylist and was blessed to be at the right place, at the right time...while I stayed prepared for my moment. I went from painting faces of stars like Christina Aguilera, Cyndi Lauper, and Alicia Keys to styling them whenever they needed because at the time there were no assigned stylists from record labels. While I enjoyed helping celebs, empowering everyday women was my passion. So I moved to LA to begin sharing my message on television.
 
AM: You have a number of shows you're a part of! Tell us about The Real - what was the process like to getting a spot as one of the co-hosts and what is it about this talk show format that is so exciting for you?
 
JM:
The Real is the sickest celebration of authenticity and girl power in a daily talk show. I am thrilled to work beside Tamera Mowry Housley, Loni Love, and Adrienne Houghton - we are a dream team. Don't get me wrong, it's hard work and we don't rest until we put our hearts out there at our Girl Chat table every single day. But what's most exciting is listening to our fans and hearing the incredible stories of lives being changed and affected through our stories of truth and progress to be our best.

AM: The fashion industry is glamorous, but it's also one that many find is harsh in terms of over photoshopping, representing diversity, weight etc - we have always been struck by how you represent and carry the message of women being comfortable in the bodies that they are in - do you feel that you are a role model for this and what led you to representing this acceptance/platform?

JM: I am the best role model for me. At 38 years young I embrace all it took for me to really enjoy the body I'm in and the woman I live to be. I wouldn’t be keeping it real if I didn't say I haven't touched a photoshopping app or struggled with my image, but being a woman means owning the right to do what makes you fabulous as long as it helps you serve your mission in life. 

AM: We love #MaiTips - share 3 of your tips with us on achieving great effortless summer style and what are 3 tips that we should consider when we go to summer weddings?  
 
JM: 
I have 3 tips that can work for both!

1. Invest in head wraps, scarves, and hair accessories. It’s the most effective piece to pull an outfit together, frames your face, and is always a classic stylish touch.
 
2. Before leaving the house work on the best poses and stride with your outfit and shoes. After all, it’s all about making an entrance and a lasting impression in pics!
 
3. Use deodorant not just under your arms, but behind your knees, inside your elbows, and down your cleavage as well. Nothing worse than feeling sweat after sitting in the sun, especially at a wedding, but a little help in those areas help you feeling dry and fresh day to night.
 

AM: You're always on the go, what are your must haves to travel with in terms of makeup, snacks and style finds?
 
JM:
- Makeup: Minnavi skin care masks are a must for hydration and luminescence, they have a time release of nutrients that keep my skin in check through any type of weather. I use them religiously before any red carpet or date night with the hubs!
 
- Snacks: Chia seeds are necessary for energy and digestive health & Dang coconut chips are delish as a healthy fat and sweet!   
 
- Style Finds: I am addicted to eyewear. I purchase glasses from every city I visit, and love how every style frame can add instant sophistication to my looks.
 
AM: With the summer upon us, how can we get a great glow for our skin to have that sun goddess kissed look?

JM: See my Minnavi skin care tip above. No really, these masks save lives. Prep it with Tulura skin oil (both the serum and the oil set) and I swear you will skip foundation. 

AM: Do you have any travel plans this summer?

JM: I'm thrilled to be executive producing and shooting my series of "How Do I Look Asia" in Singapore that will be airing in 33 countries, and taking mom to Sri Lanka and Korea after. The girls and I from "The Real" will be going on vacay this summer, and my besties Jerrod Blandino and Jeremy Johnson from Too Faced Cosmetics and I will be headed to Italy immediately following that trip. 

Did I mention I’m obsessed with travel?
 

AM: As a busy woman, how do you achieve a balance between work, life in general and assessing your own needs for personal time to recharge?

JM: First and foremost I start my day with a prayer of expectation of what's to come, and I end my day with gratitude for the unexpected. I feel that balances me for anything to come that day. Second, I prioritize spending time with what’s most important to me, like my husband, my family, the outdoors, great friends, and a really good Old Fashioned at the end of it all!

AM: What projects are you working on at the moment that you can share with us and where will we see you next? 

JM: I have an exciting project I'm working on with my awesome Mama Mai, I'm writing a book, starting a YouTube series, and we have a whole new side to "The Real" coming out for you next season!

AM: If there are additional items that you would like to share with us, please feel free to share!

JM: I appreciate the heck out of Athleisure Mag for taking this time and can't wait to hear more from your readers. Please do connect with me on my socials so we can keep in touch! Mad love.
 

AM: We loved creating this shoot for so many reasons and another character that plays throughout the luxury apartment's unit 1507 at 575 Park Ave, which had great touches that brought an additional layer of character to our cover shoot! We interviewed Louise Phillips Forbes, Licensed Senior Associate Real Estate Broker at Halstead Property in Manhattan.

LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES: It’s simply stunning! I absolutely love the renovation that was done here. There is an abundance of designer details and high-end finishes that discerning buyers really appreciate.  Plus it has open city views, including Park Avenue, and sun-drenched rooms throughout so it’s a delight to be in day or night.  It also has a well-proportioned floor plan with separate bedroom wings providing ultimate privacy.  Entertaining here is a pleasure with a loft-like great room that beautifully combines living and dining. The living room boasts a decorative fireplace and thoughtfully designed custom built-in bookshelves, while the dining area is complemented by a built-in banquette flanked by crafted custom display cases. The bold designer choices in the kitchen are very chic, featuring a stunning mosaic tile floor, dark custom cabinetry, black granite counter tops, and high-end appliances. It looks like something right out of the pages of Architectural Digest.

AM: Tell us about who represents this property.

LPF: I am very honored to be the broker representing this exclusive listing.  I have been working in residential real estate for more than 28 years and currently hang my hat at Halstead Property’s Park Avenue office, where I’m proud to lead the firm’s #1 team.  My portfolio of clients includes buyers, sellers, and luxury developers all over NYC and my career sales are in excess of $3 billion.  I consider myself more of an educator than a sales person and it’s a privilege to be a part of this process with people, after all, your home is the base upon which the rest of your life is built.

AM: The interiors of this property really made us feel at home, who were the interior decorators of this space?

LPF: I agree, it is a sophisticated aesthetic but still very warm and inviting, a home you feel comfortable in.  That is credit to the current owners, an elegant husband and wife team who love to entertain and appreciate family time. They had a vision for the renovation and made it a reality.  She is a graduate of Parsons School of Design so it’s her impeccable taste reflected in the interior design choices throughout, but he also has a discerning eye and would consider himself a collaborator in the final result.  I’ve had the pleasure of working with them on several transactions in the city and I’ve thought each of their apartments was designed to perfection, but this one is very special.

AM: What amenities are offered in this building for residents?

LFP: Built in 1927, The Beekman is an elegant residence designed by George F. Pelham with an Italian Renaissance style that embodies a global lifestyle. Pied-a-terres are permitted and the full-service, white-glove amenities include: 24-hour doorman, concierge, valet, maid service (five days a week and monthly thorough cleaning), fitness room, central laundry room, private storage, engineering staff, and an onsite building manager who is terrific. Situated on Park Avenue at 63rd Street, the building is also home to the alluring French restaurant, Vaucluse, Chef Michael White's masterpiece serving impeccable food with an interior fashioned by Meyer Davis, that beautifully integrates contemporary design elements with the natural grace emblematic of Provence.

AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around the building.

LFP: The coveted location is convenient to Central Park, fine dining and charming cafes, luxury boutique shopping, art galleries, museums, and gourmet grocers. Plus Equinox is just one block away and there is public transportation nearby if needed.

AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information? 

LFP: It would be very easy to call this lovely apartment home given that it’s move-in ready.  Simply bring your toothbrush ;)

To schedule an appointment, people can contact me directly and I will be happy to show them the apartment and discuss the purchasing details.  I can be reached via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329. 

AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?

LFP: Visit my website and click on the tab for “My Listings.” You can view pictures and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with.

Read more from the May Issue and Mai Time with Jeannie Mai as well as more info on the unit we shot in via our chat with Louise Philips Forbes of Halstead in mag.

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TRAVEL CHALLENGE | HIS X HER

May 7, 2017

One of the tipping points between couples involves their travel compatibility! It's when you find out whether you can be outside of your normal surroundings and how you handle it. In addition, it's an eye opener on how you handle navigating in new cities, how stress levels affect you and of course how much one packs! We talked with the team at DUFL to find out how they are a solution to your travel needs as well as tips that you should keep in mind when it comes to your next destination!

ATHLEISURE MAG: What is your background and how did it lead you to create DUFL? 

ANDREA GRAZIANI: I’ve spent the majority of my career in internet technology and software. Because of this, we spent a lot of time on the road traveling for business. On one particular trip, I’d packed for 14 days in London in a carry-on bag because my business partners all traveled with carry-on bags and there was no time to wait at baggage claim. We were heading back to Arizona on a Friday and had to spend the weekend unpacking, doing laundry, dropping off same-day dry cleaning and then packing everything in that carry-on again in order to be in New York on Monday. Our CEO and Founder, Bill Rinehart looked at us and said ‘there has to be a better way.’ And the notion for DUFL was born.
 
AM: What is DUFL and how does it make traveling easier?

AG: DUFL is a travel service that inventories, photographs, cleans and stores your business wardrobe in a DUFL virtual closet. When you are ready to travel, just open the DUFL app, enter their destination, arrival date and tap on the photos of the items in your DUFL closet that you’d like to pack and a professionally packed suitcase will meet you at your hotel. When you’re all done, request a pick up in the DUFL app, attach the provided shipping label to your suitcase and drop it at the hotel front desk.

We’ll ship it back to the DUFL warehouse where we’ll clean, inventory and store your items until you are ready to travel again.
 
DUFL eliminates the need to pack, do laundry, unpack and drag a bag through the airport or to client meetings or events. Packing takes about 60 seconds in the app and eliminates stress and gives our users approximately 3-5 hours of personal time previously spent on those meaningless tasks.

AM: Why is the notion of traveling as a couple such a big deal whether you're embarking on your first trip or the umpteenth one?

AG: I think there’s a different dynamic with couples, and a lot of communication around events, clothing requirements, who’s bringing the hair dryer to who’s bringing the shampoo. I tend to over pack when I’m traveling with my husband because we both have different ideas of things we’d like to do when we are on a trip.
 
AM: What packing tips can you share with us that are worth noting when traveling with your significant other?

AG: Try to have a bit of a plan - if not with pre-planned itineraries, then at least coordinate who will bring what so you don’t double up on toiletries, etc. For shorter trips, it’s sometimes possible to consolidate the packing into one large suitcase for the both of you. If you don’t want to check a bag, take advantage of the allowable two bags per person on the plane and consolidate your electronics and snacks into one bag to allow more room for clothes and shoes!

AM: When traveling to warmer climates, one would think that the packing is easier but what should we consider when bringing items with us?

AG: I personally hate to check a bag so knowing that I need to take items like sunscreen and bug spray creates a problem for me. Either take a few travel size bottles of each or purchase those items when I arrive at my destination. I’d also recommend taking light layers, a few swim suits if there’s a beach and ziploc bags for your wet and sandy items returning with you. I’d also recommend bringing anti-frizz hair products, moisturizers, and perhaps some oil blotting wipes to keep your skin regulated.
 
AM: What should we do upon returning from a trip to make it easier?

AG: I’d like to say unpack right away but that would make me a hypocrite as I may hold the world record for taking the longest amount of time to unpack :). Prior to using DUFL, I would try to do my laundry before returning home to make re-entry a bit easier.
 
AM: Tell us more about Battle of the Sexes: Vacation Travelling (i.e. women traditionally over pack and men tend to oversimplify. Do you see a difference in gender when it comes to packing?)

AG: I must say, I have been surprised to see that there are plenty of men who ‘over pack’ just like the stereotypical woman does! While women do tend to store more items in their closets, we think that because DUFL allows folks to take as much as they want with them (no sacrificing items to fit in a carry-on bag or stay under weight limit at the airport), our customers tend to take as much as they want. They bring business clothes, 70% of our users take workout clothes with them on their trips and sometimes things like pillows, blankets and robes make the trip as well.

AM: What are 5 essentials that everyone should have when traveling?

AG: Your own shampoo and conditioner, a good book, headphones, workout clothes, comfortable/sensible shoes, and bug repellent- especially to tropical areas
 
AM: What are 5 items that we should not bring when traveling?

AG: Too much jewelry. Stick with a few classic pieces so they don’t get lost/stolen during your travels and take up too much space, too many clothes- make sure to pack items that you can wear again, impractical shoes, expensive items and kids :)

Read more from the April issue and Travel Challenge His X Her in mag

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ARE YOU DATING A NARCISSIST

March 25, 2017

With more and more people turning to dating apps and websites to meet people, we see a relatable pattern. You see someone’s photo. You’re attracted. You read their profile or brief description of who they claim to be. You reach out. You exchange emails. You text. Maybe you’ll speak briefly and then, you meet. You’re hitting it off. Things seem great. However, it seems almost too good to be true. Is it?
 
According to Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, narcissists are everywhere and in varying degrees. She explains that the current “swipe right” dating culture only feeds their agenda, it’s important to understand who they are and how to spot them.

WHAT IS NARCISSISM?

Many mental health specialists agree that narcissism is basically an individual who has an excessive interest or admiration of a false self they created to cope with early hurts as children. “Narcissists are disconnected from their true selves and are constantly working to appear better than others. They have an idealized self-image and are in love with that image which hides their true wounded self,” says Hafeez.
 
Dr. Hafeez shares some “red flag” characteristics of narcissists along with tips and insights that can spare many people the heartache and mental anguish that comes with dating a narcissist.

1. Narcissists are off the charts charming. 

They are incredibly upbeat and bombard you with compliments. Immediately you are captivated by them and their focus on you. They have quick wit, can read people and know what to say to make them feel good. “Narcissists are great at building rapport quickly; however, they are doing so to serve themselves first and foremost. In other words, they feed off the attention, admiration and validation of others so they charm with an agenda,” cautions Dr. Hafeez.
 
2. In their mind, it's really all about them. 

The interesting thing about the narcissist is that they make it seem as if they are interested in you however they will always turn the conversation and back to them. “These are not team players. They look to their partner to be the source of their happiness and much of that happiness comes from getting approval or even sympathy,” explains Dr. Hafeez. “Early on in their childhoods the narcissist didn’t get the nurturing they needed to feel secure. They were neglected or made to feel as if they were bad, so they spend their time and energy showing how great they are,” she adds.

3. Rules don’t apply to the entitled narcissist.

They’re most likely to have a handicap tag hanging from the rearview mirror of their Porsche. When asked about the handicapped tag they'll launch into a descriptive, detailed 20-minute story about how they injured their knee, entitling them to the handicapped tag. They want to gain your sympathy. Other rule breaking behaviors, disobeying traffic laws, parking illegally in front of places leaving you waiting as they quickly "run in," cutting lines, and even stealing. “They truly believe the world revolves around them and expect others to cater to their needs. This is due to needs being unmet earlier in life,” says Dr. Hafeez.

4. They disrespect boundaries. 

Be mindful of your boundaries! Narcissists will do things like invade your physical space, borrow or take belongings or even money without returning or repayment. They break promises without remorse and may even blame the victim. “Protecting your boundaries is incredibly important when dealing with a narcissist. When over stepping is permitted, it leads to codependence and a lost sense of self,” warns Dr. Hafeez.

5. They look great on the surface.

Their desire to impress others may lead them to a lot of time and money on their physical appearance. They are all about status and achievement. They’ll brag about their education, their possessions, who they know, their accomplishments and typically, it’s exaggerated. “This again stems from the desire of approval. They care what others think of them so much that they use people and situations to fuel the false self they created,” explains Dr. Hafeez.

6. They’ll disappear like a ghost and you’ll feel discarded.

Narcissists will put you on a pedestal as they complement and charm you. You will feel incredibly special, caught up on their intent gaze upon you. However, once they see you’re just as interested in your own well-being, that you’re protective of your boundaries, that you have other interests and put them in their place; they swiftly move on. When they see you won’t allow manipulation, they disappear and will be incredibly cold. They may even give the silent treatment and blame you. 

7. Their past relationships are all drama.

They will make it seem like their exes were all crazy, will share horror stories and make you feel as if you are the best thing they found. They paint themselves as the victim and may add that their ex still wants them. “Pay very close attention to how the person speaks about their past relationships,” advises Dr. Haffeez. “Narcissists typically won’t keep answers brief, positive and forward moving when it comes to past relationships,” she adds.
 
About the Doctor:

Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. a neuropsychological, developmental and educational center in Manhattan and Queens. 
 
Dr. Hafeez masterfully applies her years of experience connecting psychological implications to address some of today’s common issues such as body image, social media addiction, relationships, workplace stress, parenting and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…). In addition, Dr. Hafeez works with individuals who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, attention and memory problems, and abuse. Dr. Hafeez often shares her credible expertise to various news outlets in New York City and frequently appears on CNN and Dr. Oz.

Connect with Dr Sanam Hafeez PsyD via twitter @comprehendMind or her site. 
 

Read more from the March Issue and see Are You Dating a Narcissist in mag.

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