Defining assertiveness and its advantages

The Balance of Assertiveness: Expressing with Respect

Assertiveness is the most balanced and recommended communication style, a skill that allows us to express our feelings, thoughts and ideas in a direct, honest and respectful manner. Unlike other styles, it seeks neither submission nor domination.

If we imagine life as a big stage, the assertive person is one who feels that everyone has the right to get on it; he or she climbs confidently, but also invites and welcomes others to do so.

It is the ability to stand up for ourselves in a positive way, always keeping in mind both our feelings and those of the other person, without the need to threaten or manipulate anyone.

It is the perfect middle ground between passivity, which leads us to repress what we feel, and aggressiveness, which drives us to impose our ideas without consideration.

Being assertive implies, therefore, respecting our own rights and, simultaneously, the rights of others, regardless of whether or not we share their points of view.

Stress Management as a Pillar of Assertive Communication

One of the fundamental differences that distinguishes assertive people is their ability to better manage stress in communicative situations that generate tension.

We are referring to moments such as having to express an opinion different from the majority, facing a disagreement with a boss, or having a difficult conversation with a partner.

In these circumstances, the natural tendency may be to flee (passivity) or attack (aggressiveness).

However, assertiveness allows us to deactivate this visceral reaction and respond in a calm and controlled manner.

This communication style teaches us to listen without attacking, to value ourselves, to set clear limits and to respect both ourselves and others.

In essence, assertiveness is the ability to express our desires in a kind, open, polite and direct way, always maintaining coherence and self-confidence without belittling the interlocutor.

The Advantages of an Assertive Communication Style

Adopting an assertive communication style brings with it a multitude of benefits that positively impact all areas of our lives.

First, it promotes better mental health and a marked reduction in anxiety, as it frees us from the burden of repressing our emotions or living in a state of constant confrontation.

Consequently, it strengthens our self-esteem and self-confidence, as we feel able to express what we think and need in an authentic way.

On an interpersonal level, assertiveness improves our social relationships, fostering greater understanding and mutual respect.

In practice, this skill is useful in a myriad of everyday situations, such as giving and receiving compliments, making requests, expressing affection, initiating conversations, or giving and receiving constructive criticism.

It is also very important to learn to say "no" when necessary, without feeling guilty about it.

Summary

Assertiveness is the most balanced communication style, which allows us to express feelings and ideas in a direct, honest and respectful way. It seeks neither submission nor domination, but a middle ground.

One of the fundamental differences of assertive people is their ability to better manage stress in tense situations. This style teaches us to listen without aggression, to value ourselves and to set clear limits.

Adopting an assertive style brings a multitude of benefits to all areas of life. It promotes better mental health and a marked reduction in anxiety, strengthening self-esteem and confidence.