The best way to handle insults? Use the yes-and technique from improv.
Instead of defending yourself or arguing back, you acknowledge what they're saying and humorously agree. Someone calls you an idiot? "Yeah, I can be clumsy at times." They double down? "You know what, I've done so many stupid things as an entrepreneur. I hope you haven't seen all of it".
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This technique removes their power because they have nowhere to go with it. They're expecting resistance, not acceptance.
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The key is removing your ego from the equation. You're not letting them win, you're choosing not to get hooked into their game. Defending yourself gives them what they want: your emotional reaction.
Yes-and requires accepting that we're all flawed human beings. When you own that reality, insults lose their sting.
Have you ever used this technique to handle difficult people?