Rude people are everywhere, and they often ruin people's days with their comments and bad attitudes. This isn't the intention of every such person, however, and sometimes, people are only being rude because they have had a bad day. There are effective ways to deal with rude people, without being mean yourself. Often, it's best to just ignore them or to be extra nice, although some people choose to call attention to the bad behavior in hopes of stopping it.
In many cases, the best way to deal with rude people is to ignore their rudeness. Often, comments are made that weren't meant to be rude in the first place, and if you take it personally, you may say something that can lead to a fight. As adults, this shouldn't be the desired outcome. Ignore the rude comment, and continue on with your day.
If someone in a customer service position is rude to you, try being excessively nice in return. Look them in their eyes, call them by name and smile. If they are a naturally rude person, you will be killing them with kindness. A person who is just having a bad day might feel better if you are nice. The favor may even be returned.
When someone you know personally is being rude, call him on it. Let the person know that you feel the way he treated you was rude and unnecessary, since he may not have done it intentionally. There is also a possibility that you were unknowingly rude and he just reacted, and if that is the case, you should apologize.
Coworkers can also be rude, especially in high-stress jobs. Many times, the stress is unintentionally taken out on other coworkers. If this happens to you, try to let it go. You have probably been snappy with others by mistake in the past.
Rude people seem to be all over the road during rush hour traffic, where they cut you off, tailgate, honk, and make rude hand gestures. The best way to deal with these people is to ignore them and keep on driving. You never know when you may encounter a person with a bad case of road rage, and there have even been incidents where road rage has been fatal.
It is always good to try to see the best in everyone. Most people aren't intentionally rude, and for those who are, it's best not to stoop to their level. Making rude comments back, or becoming physically aggressive, will only fuel the fire. Just step back, take a deep breath, and walk the other way. You will be the better person because of it.