[vinceguidry]

It is not completely idiotic to resort to violence, it can be completely effective in many situations, but it is unwise if you aren't comfortable with it. You might end up with your own ass kicked and facing criminal charges if you don't succeed.

Intimidation would work much better here.

You have to create a convincing impression that you are willing to go way farther than he is. You have to look them in the eyes and let them know you mean business. The threat doesn't even have to be real, just make vague allusions to bad shit that's going to happen to them if they don't back off.

You have to dig deep down into that primal part of your brain and draw out dark feelings, then harness and direct them directly at your adversary. Get in his face. It's best to practice in a mirror. Helps if you've had any performing experience or even taken classes, they teach you how to be convincing. If it feels stupid, it will come off stupid, keep practicing until you can fool yourself. Think about various ways he'll respond and prepare for them.