Well, I guess I can tell you how I did it. Took me about 4 years I guess. First, like I said, take responsibility. I don't see how you can go further before yo

Well, I guess I can tell you how I did it. Took me about 4 years I guess. First, like I said, take responsibility. I don't see how you can go further before you do that. After, you have to realize that you deserve respect. If you really think you don't, then start acting in a way that will make it easier in the future for you to think you deserve respect. Recognize that if you change enough then you can psychologically detach yourself from your past mistakes: "I just didn't know any better". It's a bit of a chicken and egg problem: You think you are a loser because you act like one, and you act like one because you think you are, and thinking that actually makes you a loser... The important thing is to reverse that downward spiral into an upward one. I think the most important thing is in what direction and at what speed you're going, not where you are on the scale. That will have a positive impact on your attitude. You'll look less and less at the ground when you walk and more towards the horizon. You'll see better what's ahead and like a good driver, you'll see things coming and be prepared. But you won't need the preparation as much because you have your better attitude. There's a quote somewhere that goes something like: "Plans are worthless, but planning is gold." You'll see that people notice you less and less and random bullies don't seem to recognize you anymore. Since you'll be a much harder target, the ones that know you well will eventually seek an easier one. Also, don't fall in the trap of just trying to say clever things when people call names. Those who talk shit all day are pretty damn good at it and it's not so much what you say as how you say it. And even then... don't go the reply route, it's useless and will probably just end you in bigger trouble. Oh and also, don't think you can just try the ignore game. Now, if you can't ignore or reply, what can you do (for the transitory phase where you're still not far enough along that people still try their bait)? In that case, just not saying anything and remaining calm much worked well for me. When they talk shit, they're usually saying quite stupid things, and if you don't react their own stupidity will bounce right at their face. They'll look more agitated than you, which will make them look bad. And don't forget that those that call names are not exactly the most winner of all so you can bet on it that they'll choke if you don't. Not sure how much all of this applies in case of physical assaults, but I'm guessing Billy gets more words than fists in his face.