Try to think of it as something hilarious and actually laugh, or imagine something genuinely funny to you, so your laugh sounds more natural. Don’t make jokes at your own expense, however. That’ll only add fuel to the fire and give them something else to pick on you about.
Try your best to avoid them without letting them know you’re doing it. They might interpret that as fear and become even more of a bully.
As you walk away from your bully, imagine you’re walking away from a complete stranger instead. In their eyes, you’ll seem more calm and unbothered by their antics. There’s no point talking to someone who is acting irrationally. That’s why an easy way to preserve your dignity and deal with a bully is to say, “I don’t have time for this,” and leave.
Try a sassy comeback line like, “Whatever,” “Why are you talking to me?” “Hey, that’s not funny,” and “Here we go again. Can we move on already?” Act brave and confident through your body language and posture. Keep your back straight and your head high without fidgeting. If you’re a parent, help your child practice good comebacks. Make a list of responses and play out different scenarios with them so they’re prepared the next time a bully bothers them.
For example, if your bully insults you, you could say, “You just said my clothes are ugly. That’s not helpful, and it’s not okay to talk to me like that. "
For example, you could recite the lyrics of your favorite song to yourself. Alternatively, you could try spelling your first and last name backward and then your parents’ names to keep your brain busy.
If the bully does try to approach you while you’re with friends, simply turn the group around and walk away. Talk to your friends about what you’re going through, too. Help them understand your feelings about the situation, and let them look out for you. That’s what friends are for!
Explain what’s happening, who’s involved, and how long it’s been going on. Then, ask what they’ll do to help stop the bully. If the adult you first talk to doesn’t do enough, go and tell someone else. Don’t give up until you find an adult willing to step in and help. As a parent, try keeping an open line of communication with your child. Use a calm and compassionate tone so they feel comfortable coming to you, and check in with them daily to ask how things are going.
Challenge negative beliefs and replace them with better ones. For example, change “I can’t do this” to “I am strong and capable. I can overcome any challenge, including this one. " Everyone has an inner strength to draw on. Bullies try to make you feel like you’re weak, but it’s not true. You have the strength to get through this! Parents can help their kids build confidence. Encourage your child to try new hobbies that make them happy, reward them for their progress—and above all, remind them how much you love them.
Try keeping a gratitude journal. Every day, write down a list of things you’re grateful for to remind yourself of all the good things in your life. You can be grateful for anything, no matter how small. Be sure to appreciate your qualities, too—take note when you make an accomplishment, or help someone else in need.
For example, you could go for a jog or take your dog for a long, calming walk. Play music on a speaker and have a quick dance party—either solo or with friends. Enjoy your favorite video game for a couple of hours or spend some time drawing if you like art. If you’re a parent, make sure your home always feels like a secure and loving place for your child—a retreat they can use to relax and unwind.
In fact, your bully’s actions might not have anything to do with you. Something personal might be going on in their life, so they need a punching bag to take their anger or sadness out on, and unfortunately, it is you.
Help others see bullies for who they really are; sad and angry people who tear others down to feel better. Go with them to report their problem for moral support. Let this other person borrow your strength and confidence if they’re not feeling it themselves. As a parent, encourage your child to take action if they see a peer being bullied. Ask them how they’d feel if someone defended them so they understand how much of a difference they can make just by being kind.
