Strategies to Being Assertive Without Being Aggressive

Assertiveness is an important skill that can make your life much more enjoyable. But, unfortunately, it is also vastly misconstrued. Sometimes it can difficult to be assertive, or make your beliefs known, while still maintaining peace and understanding. Assertive people often come off as being rude, controlling or condescending. This is because generally people do not like to be told what to do or how to do it. The trick is in learning how to stand up for yourself without making others feel imposed upon. This is a skill you can develop with a little practice.

Here are a few strategies to help you properly assert yourself:

1. Choose your words carefully. This is especially important if you are going to assert yourself in situations where you have previously been passive. Think about the different ways that your words can be interpreted. Try writing them down and read them back to yourself if that helps. Remember that there is a fine line between being assertive and being aggressive.

2. Develop good listening skills. Being assertive takes some great communication skills. Remember that communication is a two-way street. It involves speaking and listening. Truly listening will help you clearly understand the situation at hand. When you follow up with thoughtful and assertive speech, others are more likely to value your opinion.

3. Avoid taking things personally. Being assertive can be touchy. Sometimes while you are trying to do everything right, you will still end up rubbing someone the wrong way. Learn how to brush off comments that do not matter.

4. Be humble. You can combat resistance to your assertiveness by being humble. Avoid bragging about yourself, even if it is in a joking manner.

5. Show confidence. People enjoy being led by people who ooze confidence. If you are going to be assertive and take charge, show that you have the confidence to back it up. People will sense your lack of confidence if it is not truly there. So give yourself permission to feel good about yourself and your accomplishments.

6. Handle negative issues quickly. If problems arise, jump on them immediately. This is an important part of being assertive. Handle issues with kindness and respect and people will remember you for it. If you let problems linger or treat them in a negative manner, people will remember that too.

7. Check your hubris at the door. Deal with feelings you have of superiority. You only human, so perhaps you do feel superior in a particular situation where you are being assertive. If so, be careful to avoid acting rudely.

8. Apologize for your mistakes. When you are being assertive, you will no doubt in the spotlight. When you make a mistake in the spotlight, everyone knows about it. Act appropriately and apologize, and people will respect you for owning up to it.

Remember that the skill of assertiveness is something that develops over time. It may be overwhelming to try to make drastic changes overnight. Ease yourself into it and test the waters. It is always best to think with clarity and make your changes slowly.

With a gradual change, others will be more likely to accept your new assertiveness. Before you know it, you will have their respect for the new, improved you!

To your continued success!!!

Strategies to Being Assertive Without Being Aggressive