Here are some ways you can resist negative peer pressure. How could you use these in situations that have happened to you?
1. Find a source of strength (counselor, best friend, religion).
2. Find new friends who share your values.
3. Think of your long-range goals—don't lose sight of them.
4. Put the situation in perspective: Will this matter 10 years from now?
5. Get deeply involved in something positive (volunteer work, getting, straight As on your report card, sports, choir, and so on).
6. Decide to value yourself. Is it worth it to you and your reputation to give in to the pressure? Is it worth fighting?
7. Use humor to get out of the situation.
8. Don't waver in your stand: NO means NO. Practice saying it until it comes naturally! 9. Think about your reputation and what you want it to be.
10. Be a peer who puts positive pressure on others (encourage others to join you in your quests, include others in your activities, be a leader, and so on).