Bully the Bullies

I recently read an article about a novel approach that a middle school Principle took to deal with bullying.  After identifying them through student surveys, the Principle sat down with the bullies to talk about their problems at home that might be leading them to abuse others at school.  While I applaud his effort, I think the job is only half done.  What he should have also done is to teach those being bullied how to stand up to bullying, and not be punching bags.  That skill will be highly valuable throughout life, because bullies are inevitable.  In nature, and throughout human history, the strong tends to push around the weak.  The number 1 way to repel bullies is not to be weak, or at least appear that way. 

In the post How to Deal with Bullies at Work, GeekMBA360 took the high road in recommending to continue do the right things, and not let the bullies get under your skin.  It’s a classy approach.  I’d recommend it.  Additionally I suggest if someone gets in your face, you get right back in their face.  By building a tough reputation, you not only dissolve that particular case of bullying, but also deter future ones.  Just make sure you use this tactic only to respond, and not to provoke.  Otherwise, you might become a bully yourself.