Saying No: How to Handle Peer Pressure

Sometimes friends might try to get you to do things you don’t want to do. Here’s how you can handle peer pressure and stay true to yourself.

Know What You Believe

• Understand Your Beliefs: Know what’s important to you. Your beliefs help you make good choices.

  • Activity: Draw a picture or write down the things that are important to you. Look at it whenever you feel unsure.

  • Why It Helps: This reminds you of what matters most to you and gives you the strength to make the right choices.

Practice Saying No

• Confident Responses: Practice saying “no” in a strong voice. Saying no firmly shows you mean it.

  • Activity: Practice with a family member or friend. Take turns asking each other to do silly things, and say no firmly.

  • Why It Helps: This helps you get comfortable with saying no and builds your confidence.

Choose Good Friends

• Supportive Friends: Make friends who respect you and your choices. Good friends won’t pressure you to do things you don’t want to do.

  • Activity: Talk to your parents about what makes a good friend and list these qualities together. Check if your current friends have these qualities.

  • Why It Helps: Understanding what makes a good friend helps you choose friends who support you.

It’s important to do what’s right for you. Keep practicing these tips to handle peer pressure and stay true to yourself. Remember, you have the power to say no and choose what’s best for you.

For more tips and fun activities, visit Botvin Life Skills Training.