Top ten clever replies to a constant bragger

Some people think they are just proud when in reality they come across as boastful and over the top when they brag about their accomplishments, money, or material possessions.

Most braggers are insecure and feel the need to inflate their ego to appear bigger in front of their peers. People who are confident about whom they really are don’t feel the need to show off and seek attention and approval from others.

I saw a humble brag post on Facebook recently. A mom posted her son’s straight-A report card as a post. It was in such bad taste. A report card is a personal matter, and sharing it publicly with others is uncouth. Next, the bragging mom will be sharing her work reviews or yearly bonus on Facebook.

If their bragging exceeds the limit beyond which you can put up with, here are a few snappy comebacks to stop the bragger in their tracks.

What to say to a bragger

1. Why don’t you show more confidence and less arrogance?

2. Being humble shows how confident you are, bragging only shows how insecure you pretend not to be.

3. You know when you say things like that you sound arrogant, right?

4. Have more than you show and speak less than you know.

5. No matter how big your car is, how recent your car is, or how big your bank account is, our graves will always be the same size. Stay humble.

6. If you are really good at something you don’t have to brag about it yourself. Other people will do that for you.

7. I just want to let you know it’s possible to do X, and not brag about it on Facebook.

8. Wow, I bet you even fart glitter.

9. Do you ever get off Facebook long enough to live the life you keep bragging about?

10. You are perfect just the way you are, you don’t need to go on about yourself.

Definition of a bragger

A bragger is someone who talks too much about their own achievements, possessions, or position. One reason people brag is because they want to feel better than other people, get attention or praise, or impress other people. When someone brags, it can ruin relationships, cause them to lose respect, and cause problems in their social life or professional job.

How to deal with a bragger

Dealing with a bragger can make you want to roll your eyes, but we’ve all been there! Here are some easygoing ways to deal with the braggarts in your life:

1. Stay cool – The best way to deal with these people is to stay calm. Don’t let them get to you with their tricks.  Trust me, they’ll go crazy over it!
   
2. Don’t try to be better than them – Don’t play their game. Believe me, it won’t be worth it. If you respond to their boasts, you’ll just give them more energy to keep going. So, just stay away and save yourself the pain.
   
3. Switch the subject – Instead of letting them take over the talk with their never-ending stories of success, why not switch to a topic that is more neutral or includes everyone?
   
4. Be truthful – Speak up! Tell them how you feel about how they’re acting. Even though that conversation might be a little awkward, it’s better than having the feelings of resentment build up.

5. Provide compliments – Instead of feeling like you have to compete, why not break the cycle and share some love?  Try giving the braggart real comments and praise for their good work. It’s a simple thing to do that can mean a lot.

6. Establish your boundaries – Maybe it’s that annoying coworker who can’t stop talking about their successes, or maybe it’s a family member who loves to show off. In either case, it’s time to set limits. You have the power to set clear boundaries and stay sane. 

Remember that everyone has their own quirks, and talking could be a way for them to feel good about themselves. Keep your cool and don’t let the bragger bother you. Who knows, you might even get them to change how they do things.

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Famous people who have been accused of bragging

Here are some famous people who have been accused of turning their accomplishments into full-blown brags:

1. Kanye West: He has a bit of a reputation for going on these huge rants that can sometimes make even his biggest fans roll their eyes. He’s always talking about his money, fame, and artistic skills, and he usually does it in a rude or boastful way.

2. Donald Trump: Before he became president, this guy was always talking about how rich he was, what he had done, and how fantastic he thought he was.

3. Conor Mcgregor: The man who knows how to talk some serious trash and walk the walk both in and out of the UFC ring. This dude has definitely made a name for himself when it comes to bragging rights.

4. Cristiano Ronaldo: The soccer player has been accused of bragging about his sports skills, money, and fame, especially in interviews and social media posts.

5. Paris Hilton: This gal has been known to stir up some controversy with her penchant for bragging about her wealth, killer fashion sense, and of course, her A-list celebrity status.

Remember that there’s a thin line between being confident and bragging, and that fame can make these tendencies even stronger. People are complicated, after all.

Malcolm was tired of his cousin’s bragging

Malcolm had always been a patient listener, but he was growing tired of hearing his cousin brag about his expensive trips and luxurious lifestyle. He felt like his cousin was rubbing his success in his face, and it was starting to affect their relationship.

In a calm and respectful manner, Malcolm expressed his frustration and asked his cousin to stop bragging. He explained that he was happy for his cousin’s success but didn’t want to hear about it all the time. Surprisingly, his cousin apologized and promised to be more mindful of his words.

His cousin still like to go on about how talented and wonderful he was, but he stopped bragging constantly.

The Role of counselling and self care

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When you are dealing with someone who brags and you find it stressful, consider getting support from a professional. Talking to a counselor is a great way to work through a challenging situation, and help you find some strategies to work through the person’s behaviour.

Better Help is a great resource where you can talk to a counselor from the comfort of your own home.

Taking care of your own needs isn’t selfish, and you will feel better in the long run.

Got any comments, questions or tips for dealing with someone who brags? Share them in the comments below.