As you begin college, the one thing that is silently at the back of your mind is bullying and even ragging. You know there are laws but you really can’t run to the authorities for each small joke passed. So, how to deal with it smartly and tactfully. Here are few tricks that will help you through the light and fun part of bullying. However, if it gets too much, you need to inform authorities at once.
1. Don’t React
If you react you are liable to show emotions, and that is just what the person who bullies is hoping for. When you respond calmly and cleverly, you think before you act. Think about how you are going to deal with the situation. Hopefully you already have some strategy or plan in place.
2. Don’t Walk Away
Simply walking away is never a solution. It just makes you look like a poor victim and surely you’re not that. Also, unknowingly, you have given a sense of ‘power’ to the bully. If you just whine and say, ‘stop doing that to me’, then no one is going to take you seriously. Instead you’ll be termed as a cry baby. Rather be strong and hold your ground. You’re protected by authorities and if the need comes you can always reach out to them.
3. Have Some “Come backs” ready
These are the strategies we talked about above. No matter the insult be ready with some disarming tactics to get them off your back. Here are a few good ones:
“ Yeah right ! ”
“Say whatever you want”
Remember, part of their power comes from anticipating what you will say and loving the idea of being right. When you surprise them by showing no emotion, looking them in the eye like a wild animal (conveying no fear) and by NOT walking away until the power is even again, then they are at a loss. Keep that up a few times and the person who bullies will likely find a new target.
4. Be Strong !
Having faith in yourself is the most important thing. You shouldn’t be affected by the gossips they make about you. If nothing works, HIT the gym, Build some STRONG! Muscles. I guess your physique will be enough to push them back.
5. Outsmart The Bully
Bullies usually aren’t very smart or witty, so you can use this to your advantage. Laugh at everything they say, and the worse the insult, the harder you should laugh. Try to think of it as something really funny and actually laugh. This is undeniably frustrating to bullies, because they want you to cry, not laugh.
6. Develop a deep understanding of yourself (and how great you are)
Know your strengths, weaknesses and goals. Know what you want and what you’re capable of. This self assurance can be helpful when dealing with verbal bullies, as their words of insult won’t reach your core.
Author’s Name : Pulkit Kalra
