8 phrases self-centered people use in everyday conversation

Some people just can’t help but make everything about themselves.

You know the type—always shifting the spotlight, redirecting the conversation, or finding a way to turn your story into theirs. Most of the time, they don’t even realize they’re doing it.

But you feel it. The disconnect. The subtle drain. That sense that no matter what’s being discussed, it always circles back to them.

It doesn’t take yelling or arrogance to be self-centered. Sometimes, it hides in plain sight—in the everyday phrases they use without thinking.

Here are 8 things self-centered people often say that quietly reveal where their focus really is.

1) “Let me tell you what happened to me…”

You’re halfway through sharing something important—maybe a rough day or a personal win—when they jump in with their own story.

It’s not always malicious, but the timing says it all. A self-centered person listens just long enough to cue up their own tale. They’re not adding to the moment—they’re redirecting it.

2) “I would never do that.”

This often comes out as judgment disguised as opinion. You share a parenting decision, a dating choice, or even a small personal habit—and instead of support, you get “Well, I’d never.”

It’s less about learning and more about showing superiority. Their way, their lens, their worldview—all on display.

3) “That reminds me of when I…”

You say, “I’ve been feeling really overwhelmed lately.” They reply, “Yeah, that reminds me of when I was working two jobs in college…”

Before long, the conversation shifts completely to their experience. Even if they don’t mean harm, the pattern is clear: every moment becomes a stepping stone to their story.

4) “I’m just being honest.”

There’s a difference between honesty and bluntness born from ego. Self-centered people often use this phrase to justify unsolicited opinions or comments that serve no one but themselves.

“I’m just being honest” often really means, “I want to say this, and I don’t care how it lands.”

5) “I already knew that.”

This pops up when someone else shares something valuable or insightful. Instead of appreciating it, the self-centered person steps in to assert dominance.

It’s another way of saying, “Don’t forget—I’m the smart one here.”

6) “You should have asked me first.”

This phrase reasserts their need to be at the center of every decision. Rather than supporting a good idea, they want control and recognition.

It’s not about collaboration—it’s about keeping the focus on themselves.

7) “Why didn’t you include me?”

Sometimes people get left out—it happens. But a self-centered person takes it as a personal slight every time.

Often, it’s less about hurt feelings and more about control. They’re uncomfortable not being the focus, even when it’s unrelated to them.

8) “I’ve been so busy…”

We all get busy. But when someone constantly leads with how overwhelmed or in-demand they are—without asking about you—it’s telling.

For them, “I’ve been so busy” is both a brag and an excuse, a way to remind you of their importance while dodging reciprocity.

Final thought

Self-centeredness doesn’t always show up as loud arrogance. Sometimes, it’s tucked into everyday language—the way someone shifts a conversation, minimizes your feelings, or redirects the spotlight.

We’ve all had moments of being too focused on ourselves—that’s human. But when it’s a pattern, especially in someone who rarely asks, listens, or makes space for others, it wears people down.

If these phrases sound familiar—whether from someone else or your own mouth—pause and reflect. Real connection starts with curiosity, not self-absorption.