Assertiveness can be defined as the ability to recognise one’s own needs and express them in all the contexts in which we live on a daily basis, while at the same time maintaining a positive confrontation with others in full respect of both.
The term assertiveness derives from the Latin “asserere”, which we can encapsulate in the concept of safeguarding one’s own interests and rights while respecting those of others. It is the ability to live consistently with one’s own ideas and beliefs, despite external pressures and/or those of other people.
Assertive communication is based on mutual respect and is an effective and diplomatic communication style.
The behaviour of individuals within social relationships moves from passivity to aggression. Assertiveness, on the other hand, is ideally placed in the middle, being assertive means having an appropriate and effective behaviour aimed at obtaining the desired result, using authentic communication without being passive, submissive or aggressive and maintaining full respect for one’s interlocutor.
But why is it important to be assertive?
Relating assertively to others is important because it allows for self-expression by developing equal relationships where no one prevails over the other.
Assertive communication, therefore, but also becoming assertive, can be learned and specifically following the steps to focus on:
Get out of your comfort zone.
Listen actively.
Knowing how to say no, expressing disagreement.
Keep guilt at bay, take responsibility.
Breathe and then talk.
The other person is not an enemy.