How to handle mean people

- See it for what it is.
Rather than internalize the criticism dwell on what you might have done to deserve the attack, recognize that the nasty person has personal issues.
That's not to say that a friend can't point out a flaw that needs fixing, but when someone piles on five or six things that are wrong with you, take a step back and see what is really going on.

- Get away.
Exit the room, and/or- end the conversation- calmly, efficiently and without saying anything that you will regret.

- Get them on your side.
Invalidators respond well to three things: affinity, acknowledgement and admiration. Repeat back what they have just said to you so that they feel understood and begin any argument with a compliment.

- One on one.
If it's not important let it go.

If it is important , get them alone and start by saying something like " maybe you didn't know..." Some mean or rude people deliver the biggest sting in front of an audience, and alone they might be apologetic.