1. Stay Calm and Listen First

A natural reaction might be to jump in with your own stories, but sometimes it’s wiser to simply stay calm and let the person speak. In the meantime, remember James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” This simple act of patience can open the door to more meaningful connection when you finally do respond.

2. Ask Questions that Show You Care

Instead of feeling annoyed, try asking questions that reflect genuine interest in what they’re saying. “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15) reminds us how empathy builds bridges. Asking sincere questions demonstrates that you value them, which can gently guide the conversation onto a healthier path.

3. Offer a Different Perspective

It’s easy for someone to get stuck talking about themselves. If it’s appropriate, offer a new angle on the discussion. As Proverbs 15:23 says, “A man takes joy in a fitting reply— and how good is a timely word!” A gracious, insightful comment can help the other person pause and consider that there’s more to the story than their own experiences.

4. Give a Gentle Reminder about Humility

Sometimes a lovingly placed reminder about humility goes a long way. Philippians 2:3 exhorts, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” Dropping a brief reference to thinking of others can nudge a self-focused speaker to consider the value of other people’s input.

5. Redirect the Spotlight

Some people dominate conversations because they don’t know any other way. If you see a chance, subtly redirect the spotlight: “What about Sarah’s perspective on this?” or “Would you like to hear how this issue affects our other friends?” Remember, “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4).

6. Affirm What Is Good

A person who talks nonstop might be seeking validation. Give genuine compliments on what you appreciate about them. As 1 Thessalonians 5:11 instructs, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.” A few kind words can calm their need for constant self-promotion and help them feel heard.

7. Use Humor to Lighten the Mood

A little laughter often eases tension. A gracious, lighthearted comment can help both of you step back and realize there's more to life than just one person's viewpoint. As Proverbs 17:22 reminds us, “A joyful heart is good medicine.” This gentle shift can keep the conversation joyful rather than tense.

8. Shift Toward Thankfulness

When you sense pride seeping into the conversation, introduce a note of thankfulness. “Give thanks in every circumstance” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) is a powerful way to acknowledge blessings beyond ourselves. Asking someone what they’re thankful for can turn the conversational tide from self-focus to a broader appreciation of life’s gifts.

9. Practice Patient Love

Love is patient (1 Corinthians 13:4–5), which means sometimes our best response is simply to listen lovingly, even when we’d rather roll our eyes. This patient love may bring the other person to a point of self-awareness, opening a door for deeper, more balanced conversation.

10. Encourage a Wider Purpose

Ultimately, point to the idea that there’s a higher purpose for every moment we share. Bring up something that lifts the conversation beyond personal stories to a greater vision or mission. As Colossians 3:2 says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Helping someone glimpse a bigger picture can inspire them to see beyond themselves.