I have a bad rumor about myself at school?

Question

I broke up with my ex a few months ago, and we really dont get along. Last night my so-called-friend Allana, came over and went on her aim account to IM my ex Andy, and this guy named Thomas who I used to be friends with. Allana said,"Jenna's not here, I swear, what do you think about her?" Then Andy typed,"This girl Shannon said she dresses really weird and shops at weird places which is why I don't like her anymore." 1st off, Andy told me when we were going out, he likes me cuz I dont care how I dress! And 2nd, I hung out with Shannon once, and she was a slut, I really didnt like her! Ok, so then we IM'ed Thomas who told Allana:" Yeah, you're cooler than Jenna, every1 knows that. Thats why we dont like her." Thomas and Andy used to be SO nice! And then Allana asked,"How come I'm not annoying and Jenna is?" Andy said,"Oh, I dont care if you're annoying, Jenna's a spaz." I bursted out in tears and Allana was saying,"I know I'm more cool." Im losing all my friends HELP!

Answer 1

When rumors go around, you lose your friends because they don't believe in your integrity over what's being said about you. Fortunately, with the technology we have today, that's easy to overcome. First, invite one or two of your close friends who you know believe in you to go out and do something with you. Have them record what you do in video or in pictures and post them on the web for everyone to see.

Next, tell people about what you did and to look it up online. Once they see what you do, bring it up in conversation and ask what they think is cool about it. Keep what you do in the pix and videos light-hearted and moderated so there isn't much room for people to call you weird.

Once other people realize you're alright, confront the people who you know are suspicious of your odd behavior and show them what you REALLY do. Email, cell phones, myspace, facebook, friendster, blogsites, and whatever else is fair game; just make sure the people you're contacting don't think you're intruding on their privacy. When they see it, the rumor should fade out. Remember to be pleasant and never get snotty. The objective here is to repair old bonds while making new ones rather than protecting yourself by attacking others. Keep it chill and don't worry if everyone doesn't like you. There's always going to be someone out there who doesn't turn around.

Remember also to hold confidence in yourself and that it's easier to make new friends than it is to work back old ones. Yes we all have our tight groups, but acquaintances are more difficult to maintain. The more you believe in yourself, the more others will believe in you.