Assertiveness

Most problems in relationships are caused by bad communication skills. It is important to communicate correctly in order to get what you want

There are 4 different communication styles:

1. Aggressive
2. Passive
3. Passive/Aggressive
4. Assertive

People, who communicate in an aggressive way shout, threaten and blame others and no-one really listens to them. As soon as we are blamed or attacked we build a “wall” around us, do not listen anymore and try to counter-attack.

A passive communication style will make you feel that others take advantage of you. Passive people are scared to say what they think or often don’t even know what they want hence others might use or manipulate them.

If you are passive-aggressive you also do not say what you really want or think but rather make cynical remarks or talk in a sarcastic, negative way. Those remarks often have nothing to do with the actual cause of your feeling upset.

Such communication styles are not beneficial for building good relationships. We communicate to achieve a certain outcome. It is important to find a communication style that will allow you to reach the outcome you anticipate.

We need to communicate in a way that we feel is respecting of ourselves and others.

Being assertive means just that.

Let’s get to work and look how you can become more assertive:

Before an important conversation, think about your desired outcome. What do you want to achieve? Know what you want!

When you say “no” doesn’t make it sound like “maybe”.

Your body-language has to match your verbal language. Don’t say “no” but have a smile on your face and sound as if the other one can convince you otherwise.

Challenge your own irrational thoughts and negative feelings. Why do you feel guilty to say no? Why do you keep on thinking “I should have….” , “Could have….”? Concentrate on the positives.

Be clear and to the point. Take responsibility for getting your message across. And make sure your message is understood the way you intended it.

Try not to be hasty when making decisions or committing to something. You can always say: “I will come back to you on that one”.

Don’t blame others and avoid the “you” word, “you did this…”, “you are wrong….”. Rather use statements like: “I feel…..”, “I get the impression that……”

Sometimes we cannot agree on one thing. Be prepared to negotiate a compromise that suits both parties. Make sure that you do not sacrifice your rights.

Believe that you are worthy, that you have rights and that you matter!

Being assertive has many beneficial outcomes for you. It will allow you to feel confident, improve your self-esteem, give and receive compliments and criticism, establish healthy relationships, take responsibility for your emotions and reduce stress.

It takes practice to become more assertive. Try it out first with people who are your friends and easy to talk to. Small successes will strengthen your new communication style. The more you practice the more it will become a part of you.

Always remind yourself: you deserve to get what you want by respecting yourself and others.