How to Deal with Know-it-All Family Members

Most people can name at least one family member who seems to know it all. These are the family members that have all of the answers, even when questions are not asked, and they rarely hold the same opinion of whoever they encounter. These are the family members who cause blood pressure to rise and tongues to bleed. They are button-pushers who are not willing to consider that someone else might be right, even just once, and they are very difficult to deal with. Even the most basic of conversations can turn into a debate, but it is possible to deal with know-it-all family members without losing your cool and having to look for a place to hide the body. The following information provides ways to deal with know-it-all family members, and this information includes firsthand experience that really works.

Change the Subject

When know-it-all family members go off on a tangent about something that rubs you the wrong way, change the subject without responding in the way they want you to respond. If they know they cannot get a rise out of you they will continue until they do, but if you change the subject they will get the hint that you are not interested in debating.

Say it with a Smile

Sometimes it becomes necessary to use a little psychology when you have to deal with know-it-all family members. Those who think they know-it-all tend to take an opposite stand no matter the subject. For example, give typical know-it-all family members information on something you like and chances are they will tell you why they do not like it. Their lives usually hinge on the negative, but you can burst their pessimistic bubble if you respond with a smile. Begin agreeing with them and they will not know how to respond.

Avoid Sore Subjects