What does long and hard before dealing with mean?

The phrase "long and hard" before dealing with mean is a way of saying that you should carefully consider and plan your approach before interacting with someone who is being mean. It's about:

* Thinking about your options: What are the best ways to handle this situation?

* Considering the consequences: How will different actions affect you and the situation?

* Choosing the most effective response: What will be the best way to deal with this person's behavior?

It's important to remember that this doesn't necessarily mean you should avoid confrontation entirely. Sometimes, standing up for yourself or addressing someone's mean behavior is important. However, it's usually best to do so strategically and thoughtfully, rather than reacting impulsively.

Here are some examples of what "long and hard" could mean in this context:

* Thinking about your boundaries: What are your limits? What behaviors will you not tolerate?

* Weighing the pros and cons of different responses: Will confronting them directly make things worse? Is it better to ignore them?

* Finding support: Talking to a trusted friend or family member for advice can help you think through your options.

Ultimately, the best way to deal with someone who is mean is to choose a response that is both assertive and appropriate for the situation.