How to Cope With Arrogant People

In a perfect world, everyone would treat each other with respect and no one would be condescending. At some time or another, it is likely that you will encounter an arrogant person and have to deal with the situation. Whether it's in the office or in the neighborhood, there are techniques you can use to keep your cool.

Instructions

1- Maintain your dignity. If you lose your cool, you will likely regret it later. Even if the arrogant person does not appreciate your efforts to be civil, others will notice and respect you for your integrity.
2- Cope by letting condescending comments roll off. An arrogant person's goal is to demean you and lower your self-esteem. While you can't control him, you can control the way you allow his comments to make you feel. When he tries to make you feel small, remember that he lacks the ability to act like a human being. Pity him for his weakness.
3- Stand up if an arrogant person is addressing you and look her directly in the eye. Put yourself on the same physical level as she is and don't back down. Smile but meet her gaze directly.
4- Listen patiently while he rants without interrupting. Silently congratulate yourself on not acting in such a childish manner. Realize that people who act arrogant are self-conscious on some level and need to use their bully pulpit to pick on others.
5- Challenge a condescending attitude with a comment that sheds light on bad behavior. In a calm voice, ask, "Why would you say such hurtful things to me?" It is likely he will respond with a reason that justifies his arrogance, such as claiming you deserve it but your question will make him uncomfortable and may thwart future attacks.
6- Remove yourself from the situation if the arrogant person won't stop or if the verbal attack escalates. Some insecure bullies, when they find out their victim isn't going to roll over, exert more pressure and become meaner. If this happens, politely excuse yourself and walk away.
7- Find another job or quit associating with a person who is consistently arrogant. If the person is your spouse, consider counseling to try to moderate his childish behavior.

Tips & Warnings

Realize that your worth as a person is not dependent upon the cruel words of an arrogant human being. Use the techniques to help you cope but don't let arrogance get you down.