Hey everyone! I'm in my 20s and I find myself struggling with standing up for myself, especially against someone who keeps belittling me in my university group. When I was younger, I was often told not to fight back when bullied, which really took a toll on my confidence. Now, I feel anxious and physically uncomfortable when I try to assert myself. I understand the language well but I'm not fluent, so I get worried about embarrassing myself if I try to respond. What are some effective ways to handle this situation and stand my ground?
3 Answers
You have to make them reconsider if it's worth bullying you. Challenge their behavior consistently. It might feel awkward at first, but they’ll start to see you as less of a target. And yeah, maybe hit the gym or focus on improving your language skills to build confidence. There's a whole world beyond these experiences, so don’t let them hold you back!
I’ve been there for sure. A few things helped me a lot. First off, focus on your body language. Stand tall, maintain eye contact, and speak clearly—this projects confidence. Also, avoid laughing off offensive jokes made at your expense. Staying quiet or keeping a straight face can really make bullies uncomfortable. And remember, it’s okay to say no sometimes. It helps communicate that you’re not a pushover. You're already taking a big step by wanting to change, so keep at it!
Great insights! Plus, just calling out harmful jokes can be really powerful.
Getting comfy in your own skin is key. It’s about confidence, and physical activities like boxing or martial arts can help with that. Knowing you can defend yourself really takes the fear out of confrontations. Also, remember that words are just words; people can’t hurt you if you don’t let them.
Thanks for the tips! I definitely need to work on my body language.