How do we start this topic. There is no beginning and there is no end. So, I'll start somewhere in the middle.

The school year is starting again and so are the bullies. Whether showing off or acting out, there is no room for it. However, it is a fact of school life. How you deal with it is the subject of this post.

I don't normally link to web pages that have language which includes swear words. However, the following post is so powerful about being bullied that I include it. Please be warned.
Here is an article called, I had Death Threats in High School, by Chris Pirillo, which is about being bullied in high school. Read the comments too.
Here is another entry from a different perspective called, What Is Worse - a Sexual Predator or a Bully?
Here is a quote from that article, "Are you being bullied? Don’t just sit there and take it - report it! Nobody will think you are a wimp or a baby. Go to your parents, a teacher, your boss, or an adult you trust that would do the right thing. If you know of someone who is being bullied, don’t assume that it’s all in good fun or the person can take care of themselves. You just might be wrong.".

Here is a link to a very good page from Edmonton Mixed Martial Arts called, How To Defeat A Bully. The following excerpt is slightly out of context because you need to see the rest of the article for its fit. However, how not to become a victim is the premise in the article and this is just one item mentioned.
"What is the first line of defence? Self-Confidence! Here’s why. Bullies choose their victims much like a criminal would choose their victim; they go for the easy and obvious target. So if your child looks like a kid who will get bullied, guess what, they’re going to get bullied. On the other hand if your child radiates self-confidence they are less likely to be a victim, it’s almost that simple!" There is more of course so please have a read of the article.

Whatever you do, don't get mad or angry, become afraid or ignore it. You lose control of the situation if you do. Being afraid usually means pain or abuse, whether physical or mental trauma, has happened before. The victim didn't know how to deal with it. People don't stop learning. Learn to overcome fear, through training by way of contact sports, strength training, martial arts or other training which teaches discipline, movement and self-confidence. Gaining self-confidence through whatever means you choose, is the key to not being a victim.

There are no guarantees of course, because it all boils down to YOU. Don't have the victim attitude. Instead, have a survivor attitude.

Personal references:
Dealing with some aspects of Bullying in School
Don't be the Victim
Fight training for Students

I hope you have a great and safe school year.

Learning counts...

Cheers - Mike