Yeah I try to avoid violence but its good to at least be able to defend yourself if shit goes down..key word being defend..
Don't revisit a old problem. Just man up the next time someone starts shit on you. Still, knowing when to pick your battles is a good thing. I'm not a big dude, but I'm quick to anger. But still when people push me over the line I do give them one last opportunity to avoid the situation. Make it clear that you have no problem punching them in the fucking throat, then ask "You really want to do this?" If they keep talking shit, take them the fuck down. If they start to backpedal or show weakness, they're bitch and not even worth the hassle. When people start back peddling 9 times out of 10 they'll jump at the chance to sit down and shut up if you ease up a little bit. How big someone is means nothing, it's all in the eyes.