Assertiveness is an important skill to develop for personal and professional success. Being assertive can help you build healthy relationships, reduce stress, and improve your overall satisfaction with life. In this article, we’ll discuss what assertiveness is, the benefits of being assertive, and various techniques you can use to become more assertive.
Assertiveness is the ability to express oneself clearly and directly without fear of judgement or hurt feelings. It is a communication style in which one expresses their thoughts, opinions, and feelings openly and respectfully, while also being able to take into account the thoughts, opinions, and feelings of others. Being assertive means that one is able to cope with difficult situations and express themselves in a way that gets their needs met. It is a way of communicating in which one is not too passive and not too aggressive. Assertiveness acknowledges the dignity, worth, and rights of both the speaker and the listener, understanding that each person’s point of view is valuable. It is a balance between every party feeling respected and valued.
One of the biggest benefits of assertiveness is that it allows people to build healthy relationships. When communicating in an assertive manner, one expresses their thoughts and feelings in a clear and respectful way, allowing them to effectively express themselves without causing any harm to the other person's feelings or needs. Assertiveness also encourages others to be open and honest when expressing their own feelings and thoughts, further fostering the development of healthy relationships.
Another benefit of assertiveness is increased self-confidence. When one speaks up for themselves in an assertive manner, they become more confident in their abilities as well as their knowledge of situations. Assertiveness leads to feeling empowered and capable of achieving goals, allowing one to be more successful not only in personal relationships, but also in professional settings.
Lastly, practicing assertiveness can lead to improved mental health. Research has shown that those who practice assertive communication are better able to regulate their emotions and prevent stress-related issues such as anxiety or depression. Moreover, assertive communication teaches us how to set boundaries, thus leading to healthier relationships with both ourselves and others.
Becoming assertive can be difficult, particularly if you are naturally a shy and reserved person. However, there are several techniques that may help. One of the simplest ways to become more assertive is to become aware of the language you use and the way you think about yourself. Make sure to avoid using negative language when talking about yourself and think positively about yourself.
Another technique is to practice being assertive in a low-risk environment. Find a friend or family member who will provide honest feedback and practice expressing your opinion or needs in a calm and non-confrontational manner. When someone disagrees with you and you feel your emotions rising, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself of your value and worth.
Finally, it is important to remember that becoming more assertive isn’t about becoming aggressive or pushy. It is important to keep open communication and always be respectful. Being assertive means standing up for yourself and speaking up when something isn’t okay, but doing so in a way that isn’t hurtful or disrespectful to others.