There is nothing wrong with possessing self-confidence. However, when it turns into bragging, it may become a problem. If you find yourself in the presence of a braggart (someone who brags a lot), it can become overwhelming.
Here are five different ways to deal with a person who constantly brags.
1. Send subtle social cues
As explained by Social Self – a website that aims to provide information on how to improve your social life – implementing more subtle social cues like avoiding eye contact, being less expressive, or giving shorter replies can often be a signal to the braggart to shift the conversation away from them.
2. Listen politely then change the subject
Without looking bored, allow the person to finish their bragging and then move on to another subject, says Chris MacLeod, a registered social worker and founder of the website Succeed Socially. “Just smile and nod along, acting as if they are sharing some impersonal fact.”
3. Brag a bit about yourself then self-correct
According to Psychology Today – the world’s largest online mental health and behavioural science destination – braggers, like everyone else, are not fond of others tooting their own horn. So, brag about your self a little, then excuse yourself and say something like, “Oh, I guess I have been bragging. You know what, let’s not do that. It only makes other people feel bad,” suggests the site.
4. Limit your interactions with them
It is best to limit your interactions with the braggart if they did not pick up on your subtle cues. Social Self notes that when you do need to talk to them, keep the conversation short and focused on the topics you need to discuss. “Avoid going on tangents or making too much small talk, as they might see this as an invitation to talk about themselves,” shares the information hub.
5. See where they are coming from
Social Self explains that bragging is often a sign of insecurity and low self-esteem. Therefore, it is best – and easier – to zoom out and avoid taking what they say personally. “Zooming out might help you feel compassion instead of anger toward them, or it might just help you shift your focus and get on with your day.”
