It can be hurtful and frustrating when friends treat you in a way that makes you feel belittled or not taken seriously. Changing their opinion of you may take some time and effort, but it is possible with the right approach. Here are some steps you can take:
Self-Reflection: Start by doing some self-reflection to understand if there are any aspects of your behavior or communication style that may be contributing to how your friends perceive you. Consider if you tend to make self-deprecating jokes or if you often use humor as a defense mechanism. Identifying any patterns can help you address them.
Open Communication: Talk to your friends about how their treatment makes you feel. Choose a time when you can have a calm and private conversation with them. Express your feelings honestly and assertively, without blaming or accusing them. Let them know that you value the friendship and that you want to be seen and treated in a more respectful way.
Set Boundaries: Be clear about your boundaries and let your friends know what kind of behavior is not acceptable to you. If they continue to treat you as a joke despite your communication, it may be necessary to take a step back from the friendship or limit your interactions until they show more respect.
Demonstrate Your Capabilities: Show your friends your skills, talents, and strengths in situations where humor is not the primary focus. Demonstrate your intelligence, competence, and seriousness when appropriate.
Find Common Interests: Engage in activities or discussions that showcase your shared interests and passions. By focusing on common ground, your friends may start to see you in a different light and appreciate you for more than just being the "joker."
Be Supportive: Offer support and understanding to your friends when they need it. Showing empathy and being a good listener can help them see you as more than just a comedic figure.
Develop New Skills: Consider developing new skills or pursuing hobbies that showcase different aspects of your personality. This can provide your friends with a more well-rounded view of who you are.
Be Patient: Changing others' opinions takes time. Be patient with the process and continue being true to yourself. Authenticity and consistency in your behavior will eventually make a positive impact.
Evaluate the Friendship: If your friends consistently dismiss your feelings or continue to treat you poorly despite your efforts, it may be worth reassessing the friendship. True friends should respect and support each other, and if this is not happening, you may need to consider whether these are the right people to have in your life.
Remember that you deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Surround yourself with people who appreciate you for who you are and uplift you rather than bring you down. Sometimes, it may be necessary to seek new friendships that are built on mutual respect and understanding.