In principle, everyone can behave like a bully at times. Everyone wants to feel important and get the attention of their peers, but sometimes people use unacceptable means to achieve this. Have you noticed that you are having fun on account of someone’s suffering, hurting someone to show others how strong you are or feeling so mad at someone that you want to take revenge? If so, then STOP! You do not have the right to intentionally make someone suffer. Every person has the right to security and dignity. As a bully, you may offer excitement to others and it may seem to you that you are popular, but surveys show that nobody really likes bullies. Surveys also show that people who bully others at school behave the same way when they are adults and this may cause them a lot of problems in life. Bullying is bad for you as well!
What should you do?
1. Think about a situation when someone hurt you.
How did you feel at the time? Try to put yourself in the place of your bullied peer – what does it feel like?
2. Stop making others suffer.
It may not be easy, especially if there are people who expect you to continue. You need strength and courage to be respectful to everyone around you.
3. Solve the situation by trying to make up.
For example, you may offer an apology to the person you bullied. It may be very difficult for you to do, but you will both feel much better afterwards.
4. Find new ways of feeling important and getting attention.
There are many positive ways of gaining attention. Think of the things you can do well. Do you have the courage to join the drama group? Are you interested in trying a particular sport? Discuss how you could be a positive leader with an adult you trust.
5. Try to tolerate those who are different from you.
Actually, we are all different and there are no two people who are exactly the same. These differences make life interesting. The ability to communicate with many people gives us the opportunity to experience different points of view.
6. Ask an adult to help you.
If you are mad at the person you bullied and feel that they deserved it and it is difficult for you to find a peaceful solution to the situation, ask an adult to help you. For example, speak to the school psychologist, as they have been trained to solve problems between people. Put your heads together and think about what you could do instead of causing suffering to others.
