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Perhaps you've been accused of something you didn't do or you've been misunderstood. Maybe, people are saying things about you that aren't true, or taking advantage of you in some way. It might be that your work, or your ethics or your competencies have been called into question

 

We all face upsetting situations in life, more so in this world of social media where it's very easy to end up being hammered for something you Like' or Share' or say' on Facebook, Twitter or on an online forum it's not unusual for others to be politically correct, overly sensitive or unappreciative of your sense of humour.

Here are three steps to help you cope when you come under personal attack:

1. Accept your feelings of hurt, upset or anger

When you are attacked, fairly or unfairly, it's going to hurt. Accept this, and acknowledge your feelings. It's going to feel like hell, but as Winston Churchill said, If you're going through hell, keep going .

2. Admit your mistakes

If you have made a mistake, acknowledge it. Offer an explanation of circumstance as such, but don't try to excuse your mistake. Take it on the chin, and apologise, personally and face-to-face if necessary.

It's a difficult step to take, but necessary and you'll be heartened by the support that comes back your way.

3. Force yourself to become analytical

Stand back from the situation and consider it objectively. This is an important step in separating yourself from the painful emotion you are experiencing. It will help to head off any chance of reacting hastily and in a way that you may regret later.

Ask yourself:

Is this true or false?

Who is saying these things?

Is the person credible? Do they matter to me?

Why are they saying these things? What could be the motive or the hidden purpose here? Put yourself in their shoes and try to see it from their perspective.

Respect people even when they don't return the favour.

Take good advice from friends, family and professionals.

The advice don't take it personally' is all very well and good, but very difficult to implement even when the people who are having a go at you are total strangers (as can happen on some online forums.

The key is to take action on what you can control analyse the situation and put it in perspective and detach from what you cannot control.