Article: If being called ugly strikes a nerve, you might feel upset or hurt. Try not to stress out immediately. Instead, work on handling your emotions maturely. Try to control your emotions before responding. If you notice yourself getting angry or upset, take some deep breaths. Slowly lengthen each breath so that you're breathing longer and fuller breaths.  Take your breaths from your belly, not your chest. Try counting each breath. For example, inhale for four seconds, then exhale for four seconds. Not letting someone's words affect you shows your power over a situation. When someone's words affect you and hurt you, that person has power over you. Don't give the person this power. Ignore their comments and don't emotionally react. Your character speaks more for who you are than your looks do.  Ignoring these comments is easier said than done and it might take some practice. Repeat to yourself, “This person's words and opinions don't have to change how I feel about myself.” Stand up for yourself and don't back down. If you decide to speak out, talk confidently. Speak up for yourself by saying that the comments are mean and don't reflect who you are.  For example, say, “I don't know why you would call me ugly. Your opinion of how I look doesn't change who I am.” You can also say, “You are not the judge of what is beautiful. I see myself as beautiful because I know I am a loving and kind person.” Maybe someone called you ugly for having a big nose, curly hair, or big feet. These features don't carry negativity in themselves. Maybe you do have these features and some people don't find them attractive. That's okay. Remind yourself that this person is judging you and you don't have to take it negatively.  For example, say, “Yes, I do have a big nose. How astute of you to notice.” You can also say, “Looks aren't everything. But yes, I do have hairy arms.” Humor can help remove any tension of a situation. However, don't use humor to fire an insult back. Humor is a great way to show that their words won't hurt you. Exaggerate the comment by adding to it. For example, say, “I guess I am pretty ugly. I'll probably have a swan-like transformation any day now!”

What is a summary?
Handle your anger. Ignore their words. Stand up for yourself. Turn their judgments into statements. Use humor.