What is Assertiveness?

The word assertiveness is used to describe a certain kind of behaviour. It is behaviour which helps us to communicate clearly and confidently our NEEDS, WANTS and FEELINGS to other people without abusing them in any way. It is an alternative to passive, aggressive or manipulative behaviour.

If we want to be assertive we will:

• Decide what we want
• Decide if it is fair
• Ask clearly for it
• Express ourselves in a calm and relaxed manner
• Express our feelings openly
• Give and take compliments
• Give and take fair criticism

We will not:

• Beat about the bush
• Go behind peoples' backs
• Bully
• Call people names
• Bottle up our feelings

Very few people manage to be assertive in all areas of their lives. That's ok; assertiveness is something we work towards. It is ok to forget or to decide not to be assertive.

This POD will give you some insight into the various aspects of assertiveness and provide links to other sources of information and support.

Peas in this pod

• 4 Ways of Being
• Assertive Rights
• Assertiveness and Self Esteem
• Body Language
• Broken Record Technique
• Bullying
• Conflict and Anger
• Introducing Assertivness
• Listening Skills
• Negotiation
• Receiving criticism
• Saying No
• Stress
• The Assertive Message