3.Plan & Scheme
When alone, narcissists may meticulously plan and scheme ways to manipulate others to maintain control and uphold their image of superiority. They may strategize ways to exploit vulnerabilities in their relationships, plan revenge on people they perceive have harmed them, or orchestrate situations that fulfill their need for attention, admiration, validation, power, and control, often at the expense of other people’s well-being.
For example, a narcissist invited to a party may spend a lot of time planning their entrance and interactions to ensure they stand out and receive a lot of attention and admiration. They will plan how to craft their image, including their outfit, makeup, accessories, and conversations, to appear more intelligent, witty, and successful. They may also plan potential ways to create drama, chaos, or conflict and ways to stay the center of attention.
4. Ruminating
Narcissists ruminate when they are alone, replaying conversations or interactions in their minds repetitively, selectively focusing on aspects that reinforce their self-image as superior, successful, or admired. They may dwell on compliments they received or instances where they asserted their dominance or control. By replaying these interactions, they seek to bolster their ego and maintain their inflated sense of self-importance. Sometimes they fixate on perceived slights or criticisms, but usually, they reinterpret these situations to minimize their flaws or faults and instead place the blame on others or dismiss the criticism altogether.
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