Many people nowadays shun social gatherings because they are absolutely tired of listening to ego tripping by those who claim to be materially successful in life.
A friend related about an incident where someone joined a table of diners only to start talking about his new purchase of a Mercedes. The table crowd suddenly excused themselves and melt away.
However, we cannot do this all the time. We must accept those who we consider our friends in spite of all their bragging, warts and all. A soft humming 'yeah' now and then will help to to neutralize any lopsided conversation. Do not engage and the topic will die a natural death.
Also, changing topics will help to diplomatically shut off the naked pursuit of one upmanship.
