How to Deal With People Who Exaggerate

Step 1

1

Grin and bear it. Realize that their exaggerated stories say more about them and how you react says more about you. They may exaggerate or enhance their stories for many different reasons. It may be an expression of a desire or a goal, jealousy, or because they want others to like them.

For this reason, you may choose to “grin and bear it,” keeping in mind that the strain of exaggeration is usually greater on the person doing the overstating.

Step 2

2

Distract them. It is possible the they are experiencing some anxiety or looking to fill an awkward silence. Ask them questions about themselves or start a conversation about something you have in common to help them feel more at ease.

Try some of the below conversation tips.

“What do you do for a living?”

3

Walk away. Don’t get drawn into the drama that it creates for you or for others. They may crave the feeling of attention they get from telling their stories. In this way, your reaction may be just what is keeping them telling exaggerated stories.

By controlling your reactions or walking away you are making it less beneficial for them to come to you with their crisis or stories. Politely excuse yourself and pursue a conversation that is less frustrating for you.

Step 4

“Didn’t I hear you just started a new job? How is that going?”

4

Face it with humor. Another way to change your reaction is to approach it with a sense of humor. The main thing to remember here is to try and stay respectful. If it seems that you are making fun of them, it could result in unintentional bullying. You can add humor into the conversation by:

Adding in other exaggerated points to the story in a playful manner.

Showing an over-the-top response to their story.

A common and unoffensive approach is to joking way to demand proof in the form of pictures, usually with the phrase, “pictures or it didn’t happen.”

“I’ve been looking for a good movie or TV show to watch, do you have any recommendations?”

“A friend is coming in to town next weekend, where should I take them?”

Excuse yourself to go the bathroom and start a new conversation when you get back.

Step 3