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 A person is assertive if he is bold and self-assured. He knows for sure that he’s doing the right thing and nothing can come in the way of his actions. Being assertive is a good characteristic; it helps a person explore newer opportunities and career options to settle for the right one. It also makes a person think positively in all situations and circumstances and increases his level of independence. Being assertive implies that a person is able to ponder over all options available to him and decide after careful assessment.
The quality of assertiveness can be inherited or developed as a result of healthy upbringing and positive environment. It helps a person analyze a problem from all angles and think of a solution quickly.
An assertive person can accept the harsh realities of life with courage and poise. He can make decisions about his future without having to consult other people or take other people’s advice. An assertive person is a proactive thinker and always strives to make himself better despite the criticism and negative remarks given by people.
Some people confuse assertiveness with over-confidence. These two terms imply different characteristics of a person. An over-confident person is arrogant and tries to prove his point by bullying others. You cannot impose your decisions or ideas on other people to make them change their point of view. If you really want to show them that you are right, you have got to convince them by introducing logical reasoning and explanation. And to do that you first have to respect their opinions and only then expect them to respect yours.
Being assertive helps you negate other people’s opinions of you. You don’t care whether they think positively of you or not. Their opinion does not determine your thinking or your actions. You act according to your beliefs and your personal values. It helps you develop a respect for your principles and apply them in all fields of life regardless of what people think or say. For example, you are bold enough to tell other people their weaknesses without having to worry about their reaction. This behavior depicts assertiveness and control over your values.
The Different Types Of 'Assertion'
There are basically four types of assertion: basic assertion, empathic assertion, escalating assertion and language assertion.
The first type is called basic assertion in which a person conveys his feelings to others directly without having to involve other factors or means. This person knows exactly what he wants and does not have any alternative choices to give to others.
The second type is known as empathic assertion where a person is respectful of another person’s feelings and emotions. An emphatic person does not approach the point directly; instead he tries to make the other person realize that his point of view is right through examples or involvement of other people.
The third type of assertion is escalating assertion. In this type, the person who is assertive makes his point of view clear by giving a direct warning that if his perspective is not accepted then there might be dire consequences of this action. This type of assertion is useful when one has to stand up for his legal or social rights.
The fourth type is called language assertion in which a person conveys his thoughts and feelings through body language, actions or words. This person can let his feelings out by expressing how a certain thing, action or person is affecting him negatively and how he would like it to change.
Tags: what is assertive behavior assertiveness skills training assertive
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