Being a target of bullying doesn’t necessarily affect your mental, emotional and physical health at the time or later in life. But becoming a victim will drastically compromise a person’s health and well-being.
No, I don’t have a big study to back this up – although some studies are currently being conducted. My bold conclusion is an old-husband’s tale. Don’t wait for a pseudo-scientific study. Does it make sense to you? Does it fit your experience in your own life and in the lives of people you’ve observed?
Targets who resist, targets who keep their spirit’s fire burning bright, targets who get away and create bully-free lives don’t suffer the same long-term consequences. People who become victims, people who accept their defeat, people who gravitate to serial relationships with bullies, people who live feeling helpless and hopeless do suffer these long-term consequences.
Mentally and emotionally, being a victim decreases confidence and self-esteem. Over time, becoming a victim increases self-doubt, self-bullying, depression and suicide. Being a victim decrease chances of future success.
Physically, resisting harassment, abuse and oppression increases strength, courage and resistance to physical and psychosomatic ailments. Over time, becoming a victim decreases immune system functioning leading to a host of physical and psychosomatic problems.
Study the lives of people who did not become victims. Two of my current favorites are Benni Cinkle (That Girl in Pink) and Ayaan Hirsi Ali. There are hundreds of other famous ones and thousands who are not public figures. Notice how they live after they’ve won their freedom.
You may be a target. Don’t become a victim. Your future is calling to you.
The best way to stop bullying and create a bully-free life at work, in your family or at schools is to hire Dr. Ben for personalized coaching and consulting so you can:
- Develop the strength, courage, will and determination to be and to act your best resolutely, diligently and effectively.
- Develop a plan and master the skills necessary to create the bully-free life your spirit has always hungered for.
Since all tactics depend on the situation, call me at 1-877-8Bullies for expert coaching by phone or Skype.