The gray rock technique can be a great way to deal with a narcissist or other toxic person.

Much like the old childhood advice “just ignore them,” when someone is teasing you, using the gray rock method, you don’t respond.

Instead, you make yourself so boring that trying to elevate yourself isn’t fun. Or in the case of an adult, not effective.
Narcissists thrive on drama and attention, both positive and negative. The power and control they feel over another person gives them a narcissistic source. This may be entirely subconsciously driven.

The narcissistic disorder wants a reaction – the bigger the better. This makes it relevant.

They want you to…

yell
Screaming
He cries
He threatens to leave, but ultimately stays
Sleep is lost
Defend yourself
He explains
Argues
Apologize
beg

Talk about it with your friends
I wonder if there is something wrong with you
When you are unable to disconnect, the gray stone method is often the next best method.

The gray rock method involves making yourself uninteresting and unresponsive, just like gray rock. The goal is simple: make them lose interest in you as a target.

Related: Yes, You Can Change A Narcissist — If You Follow One Key Rule

Here are the five steps of the gray rock method:

1. Be emotionally neutral
   Avoid showing any emotions. When a narcissist tries to hurt you, make you angry, or make you jealous, you don’t respond. It’s as if you don’t care at all.

You can do this by:

Avoid eye contact
Reducing facial expressions and body language
Use gentle, emotionless language.

2. Don’t pay them any attention
   The narcissist thrives on drama and attention. You don’t offer any.

You can avoid giving attention by:

Do not engage in their attempts to gossip about others
Do not ask them questions about themselves
You act like you don’t notice their drastic attention-seeking behaviors

3. Make your answers factual and brief
   You again pay minimal attention, give it little importance.

You can respond when needed with:

One-word answers – “How was your weekend?” “good.”
Non-committal answers – “What do you think of Susan at the party?” “I didn’t notice her.”
Concise and realistic answers – “Where are you with the project?” “It will be done by five.”

Related: 29 Chilling Signs You’re Being Terrorized By A Narcissist

4. Do not provide personal information
   The narcissist loves access to personal information. It’s the easiest way to hurt you in the future, stir up drama, and triangulate.

You avoid sharing anything that could be used against you later:

“Are you still working on that novel?” “Meh. On and off.”
“Are you applying for a promotion?” “I’m not sure.”
“Where did you get the money to buy your new car?” no answer.

5. Make yourself bland and uninteresting
   Beyond your language and response to the narcissist, you make your physical appearance unattractive.

Narcissists like to be around those who elevate their status. This is one way to make sure you don’t do that.

The obvious danger of gray swing

If you are a major source of supply for the narcissist, flattering him or her may escalate his behavior.

They consciously or unconsciously want power and control. They need narcissistic supplies. If you don’t give it freely, they will take it.

The narcissist will say or do more aggressive things to hurt you, make you jealous, or make you angry. They are determined to get the response they want and believe they deserve.