It can be downright frustrating dealing with such an entitled person, especially when they’re oblivious to their behavior.
But here’s the kicker: you can put them back in their place without being rude or aggressive.
The secret?
A good, well-placed phrase can subtly check their entitlement.
Today, we give you 7 such phrases that will help you deal with an entitled person smartly and respectfully.
1) “I understand where you’re coming from…”
Let’s face it; dealing with entitled people can be a real pain. But here’s the thing, you don’t always have to stoop to their level.
The key is to communicate your point without escalating the situation, and this phrase is perfect for that. It shows that you’re listening, but doesn’t necessarily mean you agree.
When you say, “I understand where you’re coming from…”, you’re essentially acknowledging their perspective. But what comes next is what brings them back down to earth.
Follow it up with your point of view. This way, you’re not attacking their entitlement directly. Instead, you’re subtly shifting the focus to a more balanced view, one that doesn’t cater to their inflated sense of self-importance.
It’s all about being assertive without being aggressive. And this phrase hits just the right note.
2) “Have you considered…?”
Here’s another phrase that can help you guide entitled individuals toward a different viewpoint.
This question prompts the person to step outside their own perspective and consider alternate possibilities. It’s a respectful and effective way to challenge their entitlement without causing any offense.
By asking them if they’ve considered another angle, you’re inviting them to broaden their thinking. More than that, you’re encouraging empathy, a quality often lacking in people with a strong sense of entitlement.t.
3) “There’s something I’d like to discuss…”
A while back, I had a colleague who always assumed his ideas were the best. It could be a meeting or a casual lunchroom chat, and he’d be there, dominating the conversation.
To be honest, it was exhausting. But I found a way to tackle it without stirring up an office drama.
One day, I pulled him aside and started with, “There’s something I’d like to discuss…”. This phrase is an excellent icebreaker. It shows that you respect their time and you have something important to say.
I then proceeded to tactfully express my feelings about his monopolizing behavior. The key was to focus on the issue, not the person. By using this phrase, I was able to initiate a constructive dialogue without attacking his ego.
And you know what? It worked. He actually appreciated my upfront approach and started being more mindful during our discussions.
4) “That’s one way to see it…”
This phrase is a masterstroke when dealing with entitled people.
The beauty of this phrase lies in its subtlety. You’re not outright dismissing their opinion, which could lead to conflict. Instead, you’re opening the door to a broader conversation that includes other viewpoints.
Following it up with your perspective or another alternative will gently challenge their entitlement. It’s a diplomatic way of saying, “Your viewpoint isn’t the only one that matters.”
5) “I value your perspective, but…”
Encounters with entitled people can be challenging. But often, beneath that tough exterior lies a person who’s struggling with their own insecurities.
This is where a heartfelt phrase like, “I value your perspective, but…” can make a real difference. By starting with an acknowledgment of their viewpoint, you’re showing them respect. This can help to soften the blow when you present an alternate perspective.
The truth is, everyone wants to feel heard and valued. Even the most entitled person has a deep-seated need for validation. By respecting their viewpoint before presenting your own, you’re showing them that they matter.
And who knows? This simple act of kindness might just be the catalyst they need to start seeing things from a different perspective.
6) “Help me understand why you think that way…”
Curiosity is a powerful tool in our communication toolkit, especially when dealing with entitled individuals.
By asking this, you’re encouraging them to explain their thought process. This not only gives you insight into their viewpoint but also subtly prompts them to question their own assumptions.
This phrase is both non-confrontational and engaging. It turns the conversation into a learning opportunity, rather than a battle of egos.
7) “Let’s agree to disagree…”
This is perhaps one of the most important phrases when dealing with entitled people.
The truth is, you can’t always change someone’s perspective, especially if they’re deeply entrenched in their entitlement. In those cases, it’s better to accept the difference in opinion and move on.
This phrase shows that you value harmony over winning an argument. It reflects your maturity and your willingness to maintain a positive relationship, even when you don’t see eye to eye.
Using this phrase doesn’t mean you’re giving in; it means you’re choosing your battles wisely. And that’s a mark of true wisdom.
Closing thoughts: It’s all about respect
The essence of dealing with entitled individuals boils down to one fundamental principle: respect.
Respect for their viewpoints, respect for the conversation, and most importantly, respect for yourself. These phrases aren’t just tools to put an entitled person back in their place; they’re a reflection of your empathy, understanding, and assertiveness.
Whether you’re dealing with a co-worker, friend, or family member displaying signs of entitlement, remember – you have the power to influence the conversation. You can validate their perspective without losing sight of your own.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
