Everybody faces peer pressure at different points in their lives. It's a given. It's up to the individual to decide whether to succumb or not.
When I face peer pressure, I just take a step back. I look at the situation to see if I actually need or benefit from it. Peer pressure doesn't make me take decisions without thinking. I believe a lot in patience and waiting for the right time to do things. That's why no amount of peer pressure can get to me.
Also, if something is not right or against my morals, I'm not doing it, even though my friends put a lot of pressure. I like to do things that I can be accountable for. I like to do things that won't go against what I stand for.
I've seen people rush to carry out acts because of peer pressure and end up either in trouble or hurting themselves. This is not a situation I ever want to find myself in.
When I have friends that keep inviting me to do something I know is wrong, I just keep declining. I make it clear to them that I won't join them. I do it respectfully of course. I try not to come off as judgemental. I don't want them to think I am judging them, because that's not what friends do. I just respectfully decline.
With time, they will realize that I don't involve myself in those things and they'll stop inviting me. It's great to have friends who realize your boundaries and try not to cross them.
The lesson I have learnt from peer pressure is that it doesn't get you anywhere. If anything, it lands you in trouble. Letting it get to you could makes you take unwise decisions.
This is where patience comes in. Being patient and resolute when it comes to peer pressure would do you a lot of good.
I am inviting @emreal, @betheloji12 and @samolaj to join this prompt
It's wise of you by respectfully declining invitations without being judgmental. That shows a real commitment to maintaining your boundaries without sacrificing the friendship itself. Honestly, pressure doesn't get you anywhere—it's patience and resolution that lead to wise decisions you can be proud of.