Mornings with a narcissist are a full-on circus show—a perfect demonstration of what it’s like to live with a demon. Why? Because these individuals thrive on chaos. If you live with a narcissist and expect to wake up to a calm and comfortable morning, think again. That peaceful start to your day only exists in your dreams because the narcissistic monster will never let it happen. Why? Let’s find out in today’s episode.
Habit #1: They are obnoxiously loud—intentionally so.
When a narcissist wakes up, they make sure you know it. They yawn loudly, slam doors, and brush their teeth so noisily that it feels like they’ve put it on loudspeaker. They spit on mirrors, leave hair everywhere, and talk or laugh excessively loudly. This obnoxious behavior stems from the lack of attention they experienced all night. Their actions feel like an earthquake, shaking you awake from deep sleep. They may yell, curse, or complain, often shaming or blaming you for no apparent reason.
Unrealistic demands quickly follow:
- “Why isn’t breakfast ready yet?”
- “Why are you still sleeping?”
- “Don’t you have work to do?”
- “What about the kids? They need to get ready for school!”
They see you as their servant, and their chaotic demands set the tone for the day.
Habit #2: They act normal after destroying you the night before.
Narcissists are experts at gaslighting. They may fight with you intensely, leaving you crying and emotionally broken, only to wake up acting as if nothing happened. Smiling sweetly, they might say, “Good morning, honey. Would you like a cup of tea?” This behavior can leave you questioning reality.
If you dare bring up the unresolved issues, they’ll accuse you of being “too sensitive,” “a nagger,” or “trying to ruin the morning.” They shift blame effortlessly, turning the narrative against you.
Habit #3: Phone obsession takes over immediately.
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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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