Learn How To Say NO To Peer Pressure

If there is one thing you have to avoid in college, it has got to be negative peer pressure. You have to stay away from it, most especially if it apparently directs you to do unnecessary things. But of course, we know that this is easier said than done. As much as possible, you don’t want to burn bridges with anyone. So how are you going to do it? 

We listed a few practical ways on how to deal with negative peer pressure. These are proven effective. We’ve been through the same before and how we wish we had a guide that helped us. Needless to say, we learned the hard way.

Focus on Your Goals

It’s all about having the proper mindset and keeping your eyes on the prize. So whenever someone asks you to do something, there’s no need to immediately say YES. But instead, gauge first if what they urge you to do could contribute to your main goal. 

For example, you want to ace an exam and to finish with an outstanding GPA. Do you think partying every night will help you achieve that? The answer is pretty obvious, right? And because you are focused on your ultimate goal, you deliberately stay away from activities and people that might not help you. 

This is not to say that you should avoid all parties or people. Imagine how boring that is. In fact, we recommend that you relax once in a while and do something different. That way, you are giving your brain a break, and at the same time, you can establish a network that can probably help you in the future. 

Be Firm When You Say No

At times, other people will keep on insisting that you join them because they feel that you can still be persuaded. Apparently, your first ‘no’ wasn’t convincing enough. It has got to do with your conviction. 

When you say NO, make sure that you mean it. Keep eye contact but do not be rude. Just let the person know that you are firm with your decision. 

Another technique is to follow up with a valid reason. If you have an exam, say that you are studying and show it to them. If you do not support their activities or vices, say you are not up for it. Your honesty can go a long way. Don’t give a lame excuse because it’s going to be obvious and they will keep on insisting sooner or later. 

If they happen to urge you again, be consistent in saying no. Speak up! Once they see that you are not interested, they will naturally stop.

Use Humor

If you don’t want to offend people, or if you want to pacify them a bit, humor is the way to go. For example, they want you to skip classes. Don’t lecture them and act like you are a better person. You can simply say you are not as smart as them and that’s why you need to go to your class. Be careful not to sound sarcastic though as it is going to have a different effect.   

Find Other Activities 

Those who are easily pressured by peers have a lot of idle time on their hands. They are not busy enough, and so this is an opportunity for other people to invite you. And because you naturally want to kill time, it’s easier for you to say yes. 

Don’t let that happen by making yourself pre-occupied with things and activities that matter to you. At the onset, look for communities and group with the same interest and goals. Be observant, and if you assess that they are doing things different from your principles, then it is always good to leave. 

Avoid Pressuring Others 

If you don’t want to be pressured, then don’t do the same with other people. Show them respect and value their personal space. Sometimes we are not aware that we are subtly pressuring 

people, so it pays to observe.   

Encourage Them to Try Other Activities

If possible and you think you can do it, influence them to try out other things. Instead of exhausting themselves from endless partying and beers, invite them to be more physically active. Maybe hiking or running is something they would like to try. But again, don’t force them if they don’t want to.  

Not all peer pressure is negative. Some groups would push you to become better. Use your judgement, value what is important to you, and learn how to say no.