Quote of the day

"I can accept failure. Everyone fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying." --- Michael Jordan

Peer Pressure

How to combat peer pressure at work and at school?

1. Think about what is best for the company you work for

Many times, others think solely about themselves, but if you think about the company as a whole, it will help your judgment process

2. Avoid gossiping in the workplace

This is very important. The last thing you want to do is start getting into a gossip battle with someone else at work. Go about your own business and get your work done well.

3. Keep a positive attitude no matter what.

Those who pressure you to do things you don't want to do will likely be frustrated if you have such a positive attitude.

4. Keep a smile on your face.

Do not talk behind other's backs. This is very hurtful and a good way to get yourself into trouble.

5. Choose your friends wisely.

There's a big difference between someone who pressures you into wasting your money on stuff you don't need and someone who draws you into drugs and alcohol. Kids who use that kind of peer pressure will make you feel rotten in other ways, so it's best to avoid them.

Find someone in your group of friends who objects to drugs, alcohol, crime, and cigarettes. An ally can really help when push comes to shove. Make sure you respect them, though, so the strategy doesn't backfire.

Support someone who's undergoing peer pressure. When cocaine is being passed around a party and kids are giving someone a hard time, pull them away from the crowd.

Emphasize that doing drugs, drinking alcohol and smoking are illegal. Ask your friends if they want to go to jail, get suspended from school or get into trouble with their parents. Tell them the punishment isn't worth the crime.

Learn the gruesome truth about the health effects of drugs, alcohol and smoking. They kill your brain cells. These chemicals ruin your skin, teeth, and hair and make you look and feel gross.

5. Take a broken record approach.

No matter what anyone says, repeat, "I don't do that stuff". You don't need to justify your decision.

Read horror stories on the Internet and share with them whoever's trying to pressure you. Some peers can only appreciate in-your-face messages like stories about destroyed lives. Email and text-message them URLs so they can see for themselves.

Avoiding peer pressure doesn't require not conversing with others. Converse and associate yourself, but don't compromise. Dealing with peer pressure isn't easy, but it can be done, so keep your head up and smile! :))