Peer Pressure

You face it almost everywhere you go. Your peers influence you in a number of ways - both postive and negative. These can range from minor things like the way you comb your hair, to major things like pressure to use drugs and alcohol. Peer pressure isn’t always a bad thing and it can be the reason that leads you to try out for a sports team, or pick up the latest book that everyone is reading. Other times it can lead to unwanted or negative behavior that you normally wouldn’t even consider. This can be especially difficult when it feels like it’s directed at you from all angles. That is why setting your boundaries ahead of time is always an important role when avoiding situations that might otherwise make you feel uncomfortable.

Below, you will find helpful tips on how to avoid peer pressure and overcome similar situations.  _____________________________________________________________________________

Build Self-Esteem - Find what you’re good at. Bring out the positive qualities that make you a unique individual. Viewing yourself in a positive way is a great way to avoid falling into the pressure to fit in.

Set Boundaries - Knowing what you will and will not do ahead of time will will help you stick to your decisions when you’re faced with a challenge.

Similar Interests - Surrounding yourself with positive friends that share common interests will help you learn from one another and will offer you people to talk to when you need help.

Learn to Say No - Your true friends will accept this answer because it’s your decision. Don’t feel like you have to come up with an explanation or an excuse just because your choice is different from theirs.

Do the Right Thing - If a situation doesn’t feel right then it probably isn’t. Remember, it’s OK to say no even though all of your friends said yes. It takes courage to do this, and it will help you figure out who you are as a person and what you stand for.

Learn to Walk Away - It’s OK to walk away from a situation if you feel uncomfortable with it. Once you’ve had time to think it over you will be more likely to come up with a solution.

Stand Up For Others - Don’t join in when others are pressuring someone in a negative way. Your peers will see this and follow your lead. It just takes time for people to realize this or at least an example for them to follow.