Assertiveness: the middle way between avoidance and aggression

Being assertive is the ability to express your opinions, desires and feelings clearly, directly and respectfully, without violating the rights of others.

It is the middle way between avoidance and aggression, offering a healthier third option that avoids harmful extremes.

Assertiveness is an act of self-care that allows you to set healthy boundaries, strengthen your self-esteem and improve your relationships by fostering honest and respectful dialogue.

Communication Styles and the Cost of Extremes

In the communication spectrum, there are several styles that, if not well managed, can generate conflicts:

Avoidant Style: characterized by fear of confrontation, which leads to ignoring or avoiding the situation.

This style causes superficial relationships and a gradual distancing.

Passive or Complacent Style: It is a more active form of avoidance, where the person sacrifices his or her own needs in order not to be rejected.

Complacency often leads to low self-esteem and accumulated resentment.

Aggressive Style: Arises when a person does not know how to process their feelings or communicate their needs, so they react aggressively to gain control.

This can lead to isolation, as people withdraw to avoid conflict.

Passive-Aggressive Style: Combines fear of confrontation with an inability to communicate needs.

The person expresses resentment indirectly, which also leads to isolation and lower self-esteem.

Assertiveness, on the other hand, balances self-respect with respect for others.

It allows you to stand your ground while being supportive and considerate of the other person's needs, which helps strengthen the bond rather than destroy it.

Self-care in expressing your truth

Being assertive is a caring act that allows you to express your truth without being aggressive.

If the other person really knows how you feel, they may seek to change their behavior to improve the relationship.

Assertiveness is the way to resolve conflicts, as it gives you the ability to set clear boundaries and communicate in a respectful manner.

Your true strength lies in facing conflict calmly and confidently, not in avoiding or succumbing