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Step 1
Develop positive self-esteem and confidence. This may help you avoid adult bullying, but even it doesn't, you know the bullying is undeserved and stems from the bully's problems, not yours. This could take professional counseling.
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Step 2
Make eye contact and use positive body language. Cringing or cowering tells the bully that he's winning. Keep your back straight and your shoulders squared. You may want to cross your arms as a visual sign that you won't tolerate bullying.
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Step 3
Stay with another person or a group of people. Bullies know that if they bully you in public, witnesses may side with you.
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Step 4
Look at things from a different perspective. You may be overreacting or handling constructive criticism poorly. Ask others for their opinion.
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Step 5
Keep your personal life private. Some bullies use every little detail about you as ammunition. Put the bully on a need to know basis.
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Step 6
Document situations of bullying, especially in the workplace. Often the HR department sides with managers rather than staff. Keep good records and include witnesses to the events when possible.
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Step 7
Talk with bully to outline the problem and offer suggestions. Use "I" phrases rather than "you" phrases to keep the bully from becoming defensive. If necessary, ask for a meeting with a mediator.
