In the labyrinth of human interactions, two shadows loom large: office bullying and cyberbullying. One thrives within the fluorescent-lit confines of cubicles, while the other dances across screens and social media platforms.

Recently, one of our badminton players faced cyberbullying. Despite winning medals, he grappled with what people thought of him. Sound familiar? Office bullies also wield the power of perception. They undermine, criticize, and push talented individuals toward darkness.

In my opinion, he should focus on his passion and competitions —rather than the noise. And so should we. Whether in the office or online, let’s learn to let go of what doesn’t matter—those shadows—and embrace what truly does: our well-being, our dreams, and our growth.

So, how should we navigate these shadows:

Acknowledge It:

Office: Don’t sweep it under the office rug. Recognize the signs—whether it’s the passive-aggressive emails or the icy glances during meetings.

Cyber: The digital taunts? Acknowledge them. Don’t minimize their impact.

Document Everything:

Office: Keep a record. Dates, incidents, and names. Evidence matters when you’re navigating this storm.

Cyber: Screenshots, timestamps—create a digital trail. It’s your armor.

Seek Support:

Talk to Someone: A trusted colleague, HR, or an external counselor. You don’t have to face this alone.

Self-Care: Prioritize your well-being. Yoga, meditation, or a walk in the park—whatever helps you recharge.

Confront the Bully (if possible):

Assertively, Not Aggressively: Address the behavior calmly. “I noticed when you said X, it made me uncomfortable.”

Set Boundaries: Politely but firmly establish what’s acceptable.

Know When to Walk Away:

Sometimes, leaving toxic environments is the bravest choice. Your mental health matters more than any job.

In Conclusion: Our Strength in the Shadows As we stand here, remember that resilience isn’t about enduring shadows—it’s about finding our light. Whether it’s the badminton court or the office cubicle, let’s focus on what truly matters: our well-being, our dreams, and our growth. And when we look back a decade from now, these bullying situations will indeed fade. What remains? Our strength, our victories, and the knowledge that we stood tall, even when shadows threatened to engulf us