Are you looking for a way to be more assertive in your life? If so, you've come to the right place. It takes time and patience to learn how to be assertive, but it will be well worth the effort in the long run. Despite the initial resistance, it will get easier to assert yourself over time, especially if you know your rights and aren't wasting your energy on petty arguments.
Ask for feedback when necessary. People with thin skin are afraid to ask for help and don't accept constructive criticism. Asking for feedback helps you grow and improve as it gives you the opportunity to adjust and make necessary improvements. By asking for feedback, you create a positive cycle that leads to greater self-confidence. If you want to feel better in your life, you need to be more assertive. However, this doesn't mean you have to be an aggressive person. You can simply ask for feedback whenever necessary, and then implement changes accordingly.
It's important to realize that you'll always have an older, dysfunctional part in you. It's important to remember that your old, dysfunctional parts will always be present, and it will take some time to strengthen the assertive part. When you think assertively, you'll strengthen this part, and you'll reinforce your own new assertive behavior internally and externally. The key to becoming assertive is to be proactive and don't let others control you.
Learning how to assert yourself effectively can increase your confidence and your overall happiness. It's also important to practice non-emotional communication. Assertive people know their own needs and express them clearly. When their needs aren't met, they respond calmly and logically with helpful counter-solutions. In some cases, it's necessary to say "no" to protect your time and workload. Instead of giving up, try to reach a win-win situation.
Learning to be assertive will improve your confidence levels and build your relationships. Learn to say what you want to say, and practice with general scenarios. Write scripts and role-play with others to learn what to say. Your body language is important in communicating your confidence. You'll want to maintain an upright posture, a forward lean, and regular eye contact. Remember to be assertive without sounding rude or aggressive.
Assertiveness differs from aggression. The former is about stating needs and requests respectfully and within your personal boundaries. When you're overworked and frustrated, being assertive may feel uncomfortable. In such a case, an aggressive response would be blowing up at your boss or arguing vehemently in the middle of a meeting. The latter, on the other hand, would involve scheduling a meeting with your boss to discuss the new system or delegating responsibilities.
