How to Deal With a Talkative Friend

Sometimes it's impossible to deal with a talkative friend. The trick (like any relationship) is communication. But how do you communicate with a person who barely takes a breath between words? What follows are some simple ways to survive Mr. or Mrs. Loquacious.

Instructions

1. Learn to notice your talkative friend's mood through their inflection. For example, when you hear an excited emotion, mirror it with a similar tone. Likewise, with angry or disappointed inflections. Such tactics will allow you to fake interest without having to follow the conversation.

2. Go to places where your friend's chattiness is incompatible with the surroundings. Concerts, loud parties, libraries, monasteries or any other place where talking is difficult, may save you the trouble of listening to your gabby friend.

3. Excuse yourself tactfully from the conversation. Usually a conversation will cover more than one subject with each topic having a beginning and an end. Try waiting for the middle-to-end of your friend's topic and excuse yourself graciously. If your patience is at an end, simply wait for a pause (they have to breathe sometime) then tell them you have to go.

4. Divert your friend's attention. Simple ways include help from others (My wife is calling me), breaks (Hold that thought, I have to use the restroom) and/or excuses (I'm feeling a bit tired at the moment, can we continue this conversation later?).

5. Be honest with your talkative friend. Sometimes the best way to deal with a talker is to confront them gently about the problem. Let them know that you value their friendship and would like them to listen to you more.