[iknownothow]

At this point it's a reflex and that's what I hate about it. I've had to catch myself mid way through the reflex, when I turn to look at the phone and then turn it on and then realizing what I've done and then turn it off. To a third person, it looks like I've just checked if there's new messages or checked for the time. I've had this reflex and caught it mid way, when having important conversations with partner, friends, colleagues etc in the last two weeks and it's embarassing.

I am of the inattentive type so I am more prone to this reflex but I am also more mindful than most who doesn't actually go through social media at all. The reflex is most likely to just check HN or Reddit. Maybe you'll be more aware and notice this reflex in other people you're in conversation with.