How To Write An Assertive Statement
Do you have trouble communicating with others, whether in speech or a written format? Is it hard for you to get your point across without seeming aggressive? If so, then you need to try assertive communication. Assertive communication is a healthy and useful tool to get your point across without hurting anyone's feelings.
But for this, you need to learn a new way of communication. Read on to learn more about assertive communication and how to write an assertive statement.
What Is Assertive Communication?
Assertive communication is a way to express your positive and negative emotions directly and openly. It is your right to display your honest opinions and actions without judging others for theirs. You can advocate for yourself but politely to protect not only your needs and ideas but of others as well. There is a fine line to walk when writing an assertive statement, as it can turn passive or aggressive (or even passive-aggressive) if used in the wrong context.
There are many advantages of using assertiveness in your communication; for example, you protect your needs, build mutual respect and understanding, reduce anxiety and stress, and prevent others from taking advantage of you.
Characteristics Of Assertive Communication/Statement
There are 8 main characteristics of assertive communication, divided into verbal and non-verbal.
Non-Verbal
- Posture
- Tone
- Eye-contact
- Timing
- Gestures and facial expressions
Verbal
- Clarity
- Positive tone
- Non-threatening
- No criticism
There is no definite way to write assertive statements but to ensure your point gets across, you can try the following techniques.
Use "I" Statements
The best way to write assertive statements is to use I-statements. I-statements help you focus on your needs and issues without blaming others. This help strengthens personal and work relationships and makes others more accommodating to your needs.
I-statements include three elements; behavior, feeling, and the tangibleconsequences of those feelings.
Be Specific
Your statement needs to be clear, honest, and specific. Don't give unnecessary information when refusing something. It isn't aggressive, and you aren't obliged to offer extra, but it does help if you can provide a short reason for your refusal. This is not always necessary, but if you have an ongoing relationship with the person, it's useful.
Stay Calm And Repeat
It's very hard to stay true to your needs when the person infront of you keeps insisting that you consider their needs over yours. Here is where you need to stay calm and repeat. This is also known as a repeated assertion. Through this, you can ignore manipulative verbal traps and arguments and stick to your point.
Workable Compromise
If you feel like your self-respect is not in jeopardy, you can come to a workable compromise. Remembers, assertive communication is not only about respecting your needs but also others as well. If a compromise does not negatively affect your feelings and behavior, go for it. However, it is not a necessity.
Writing an assertive statement involves fogging, negative assertion, and negative inquiry. It is the best approach in any situation where you need to be clear and specific about your needs and concerns. We hope this article helped!