Become more assertive in just a few steps

Before giving you a few tips on how to become more assertive I want to share something personal.

When I started saying "no" and stopped always trying to make others happy, I started living the way I really wanted.

It felt amazing like I suddenly had a lot of energy and power.

I guess I just got tired of not being true to myself, and feeling free was exciting.

Learning to stand up for myself and set boundaries changed how I see things for the better.

But what does it mean to be assertive?

Being assertive means confidently expressing your thoughts, feelings, and needs while respecting the rights and boundaries of others. It involves standing up for yourself in a respectful manner, communicating clearly and directly, and advocating for your own interests without being aggressive or passive.

Assertiveness helps you to assert control over your life, make your opinions known, and maintain healthy relationships.

You can get better in just a few steps:

• Use clear communication: be direct and honest towards the person you’re talking to regarding your thoughts, feelings and expectations.

• Respect for self and others: respect your rights, opinions, and boundaries, while also acknowledging and respecting the rights and feelings of others.

• Show confidence: through their body language, tone of voice, and choice of words.

• Active listening: pay attention to the other person's perspective, show empathy, and seek understanding. This helps build rapport and fosters mutual respect in conversations.

• Set your boundaries: communicate your limits and expectations to others and take action to protect those boundaries when necessary.

• Problem-solving mindset: seek resolutions that meet your needs while considering the needs of others.

Overall, being assertive allows you to express yourself authentically, maintain healthy relationships, and navigate social and professional situations with confidence and respect so what are you waiting for?

Being assertive is being in control and it’s a life changer!

Assertiveness and setting boundaries are deeply intertwined, as assertive individuals understand their needs and communicate them effectively, thus establishing clear boundaries.

By being assertive, one can confidently uphold their boundaries, fostering healthier relationships and promoting self-respect while ensuring mutual understanding and respect from others.

Reading tip: “Set boundaries, find peace. A guide to reclaiming yourself” by Nedra Glover Tawwab.