Assertiveness is a way of making sure your needs are met while still considering the needs of others. If you suffer from social anxiety disorder (SAD), communicating assertively may seem uncomfortable at first. Chances are that you have adopted a passive communication style that enables you to avoid conflict but leaves you feeling anxious, depressed and helpless, and causes frustration and discomfort to those around you. Learning to communicate assertively is not selfish, but rather an effective way of negotiating social encounters.
You may have misconceptions about what it means to be assertive. People who communicate assertively are not pushy or obnoxious. They do not step on the feelings of others to get what they want, as is the case with aggressive communication. Instead, assertive communication involves expressing your feelings, needs and desires in a nonjudgmental and nonthreatening way.
Assertive communication can also be considered helpful to others, because you are giving clear information about what you need to be satisfied. By doing so in a nonthreatening manner, you also give others the opportunity to refuse your requests if your needs conflict with their needs.
Still not sure if assertive communication is the way to go? Consider that most of your daily encounters will be with people who are communicating and behaving assertively. They are telling you what they need from you and expecting you to refuse if their needs conflict with yours. If a request is too large or too difficult, it is up to you to communicate why you can't comply.
By the same token, others expect you to tell them what you need. Instead of expecting others to read your mind, or hoping that they will guess what you want, you need to be clear, honest and open about your needs.
Ready to become assertive? Follow the links below to learn how to communicate assertively.
