Yes, many people check their phones upon waking, but for narcissists, it’s a calculated move. They’re seeking “supply”—attention, admiration, or control. They scan social media, text messages, and other platforms to find someone to manipulate. Their expression may reveal irritation if they find nothing or a smug smile if they’ve successfully caught someone in their web. This behavior underscores their constant hunger for validation.
Habit #4: They exhibit unhelpful behavior and “absent presence.”
If you have children with a narcissist, expect to handle everything yourself. Whether it’s preparing lunches, getting the kids ready, or sending them to school, you’re left to manage it all. Meanwhile, the narcissist might sit idly, absorbed in their phone or pretending to be “busy.” They often consume negative news or gossip, which fuels their toxic energy.
Habit #5: They act miserably to gain attention.
Some narcissists start the morning acting miserable or depressed. While this may resemble genuine morning struggles or even clinical depression, their motives are different. They want attention and sympathy. By appearing downtrodden, they manipulate others into mothering or catering to them. This behavior contrasts starkly with how they present themselves later in public—confident and happy.
From my personal experience, my father, an overt narcissist, dominated mornings with loud and disruptive behavior, while my mother, a covert narcissist, played the victim. The mornings were filled with complaints and emotional manipulation, a sharp contrast to her cheerful demeanor outside the home.
Those were the five morning habits of a narcissist. Have you witnessed any of these behaviors? Share your experiences in the comments below; your story could validate and support others in similar situations.
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