“You cannot live in society and be free from society,” a well-known politician once said. Indeed, a person is forced all his life to revolve among other people, involuntarily obeying the norms and rules adopted by them. Kindergarten, school, higher educational institution, work. The larger these groups of people, the more they look like a crowd, where the real "herd instincts" sometimes rule - with a rigid hierarchy and an equally harsh rejection of everything that goes beyond generally accepted boundaries. How can a person "survive" in a crowd, remaining himself?
Instructions
Step 1
First of all, immediately and clearly mark the boundaries, which must not be crossed under any circumstances. Neither you nor others. Do not succumb to arguments such as: "It is customary", "It is supposed to be." Remember that you must have your own "head on your shoulders", do not be led.
Step 2
Always remember that you are not a dumb, wordless mechanism, not some kind of "cog", but a living person, with your own rights, habits and outlook on life. If such simple things seem strange, incomprehensible to someone, these are his difficulties, not yours. Don't get into an argument to prove your point.
Step 3
Of course, sometimes you will have to make compromises and make concessions. This is understandable and natural. But only until it turns out to be in an insoluble contradiction with your moral values and beliefs. Do not be too flexible, in some situations you need to show firmness of character.
Step 4
Do not react to provocative attacks such as: "What do you want most of all?" or "Are you the smartest?" Just ignore them. Or calmly answer: "At least, definitely not the stupidest one!" Don't be afraid to be considered a black sheep. Yes, her fate is always unenviable, but then you will not have to blush with shame for your own behavior. Always be human.
Step 5
Moreover, do not fall for cheap tricks: "Are you weak?" or "You're just scared!" Reacting to such tricks is just plain silly. Remember: no truly smart, self-respecting person will get involved in a dubious adventure, will not commit an unworthy act, just to prove to someone that he is "not weak." Avoid this kind of manipulation.
Step 6
As a last resort, be prepared for the fact that you will have to defend your position using force. Alas, there are individuals who do not understand another language, and consider the manifestations of politeness and restraint as weakness. One way or another, try to solve everything without fists, because you can put a person in his place with a word.
