How to subtly distance yourself from someone? First, try to only state the facts and say less about your emotions. For example, if someone asks you what you're doing, you can respond with "I am working" instead of "I am working overtime, it's so annoying." Because once you express an emotion, the other person will feel that you have a desire to continue the conversation and may bring up better topics, such as complaining about working overtime together. Second, listen less to emotions. For instance, when someone wants to express their feelings to you, like "I am so tired from working overtime today," you can say "I will talk later, I'm outside." This kind of behavior, not listening to others' emotions, is also quite off-putting. Third, use a polite tone more often, such as "Thank you," "You've worked hard," and "Yes," etc. Never add any internet memes or similar things out of fear of awkwardness.