Assertive communication is a skill that is not possessed by many, mainly because our style of communication as a community is quite passive. However, whether you are a leader, manager, CEO, or simple employee, assertive communication can help you develop a presence in your community.

Many people lack the ability to remain assertive in situations that affect them on an emotional level. However, this is a skill that can be developed with some practice and proper guidance.

Mediation Services Winnipeg is offering an extensive course on assertive communication that can help you develop the skills that you need to express what you believe and how it can be achieved in a way that is strong, open, tactful, and effective. The course is designed and taught by certified mediators who have years of experience and training.

What Is Assertiveness?

Assertiveness is the ability of a person to communicate and express what is important and how he/she feels about it. However, assertiveness requires you to behave in a way that respects the other person and allows him/her to be assertive as well.

In addition to this, being assertive is relative to the situation as well as the people involved in it. It is easier to be assertive in some situations as compared to others. On top of this, many people have reported that they find it easier to be assertive with strangers rather than with their friends and family.

Maintaining an assertive personality can reap many benefits. However, it can be risky in some situations, which is why it is up to you to create a balance. Studies show that individuals who cannot communicate clearly and assertively run the risk of facing an array of potential problems caused by miscommunication. They are also more prone to issues like anxiety, depression, increased stress, and other health issues.

Why Should You Learn Assertive Communication?

Assertive communication can revamp the way people look at you. It helps you maintain a balance while communicating. You will neither come across as too passive nor as a bully. Here is why you should learn how to communicate assertively.

You Might Come Across As Timid Due To Passive Behaviour

It is not uncommon for people to take a passive approach during arguments and certain situations in real life. This portrays them as shy or overly easygoing. Saying stuff like "I'll just go with whatever the group decides" shows that you are trying to avoid conflict, which can be a good thing in some situations, but, in the end, it also shows that you are extremely timid.

It is good to avoid conflict and arguments but going with whatever everyone else decides sends a message that your thoughts and feelings are not as important as those of other people. All in all, if you are too passive, it gives other people the incentive to disregard your feelings and needs.

For example, if you always say yes when a colleague asks you to take over a project, even if you have your hands full and don’t have plenty of time, you will give away a message that your personal life does not matter. Just saying yes to everything because you are shy and would rather not say no will only lead to the deterioration of your value in the workplace.

If you don’t know how to deal with this issue, you can always opt for On-site training with certified and experienced mediators.

You Might Come Across As A Bully Due To Aggressive Behaviour

If, instead of being passive, you are aggressive when it comes to communicating your needs and requirements to other people, you might come across as a bully who disregards the feelings, needs, and requirements of other people.

It makes others feel that you are self-righteous or feel superior to them. Many people have reported that in the presence of an individual who is aggressively vocal about his/her needs, they feel humiliated and intimidated. The worst part is that aggression undercuts trust and mutual respect. Others may come to resent you, leading them to avoid or oppose you.

If you are too aggressive while sharing and communicating how you feel, people feel disrespected. The best way to change your attitude is by learning to be assertive.

Assertive communication helps you explain yourself while keeping the feelings of other people in mind. If you are looking for ways to improve your communication skills, Meditation Services offers detailed courses and online training programs.

Benefits Of Being Assertive

Being assertive is a healthier way of communicating with the people around you. It offers several benefits that can help you succeed in both personal and professional life. Some of the benefits of being assertive are:

=> It makes you sound confident
=> It helps you build self-esteem
=> You are able to understand and recognize your feelings
=> You earn respect from others
=> It helps you improve your overall communication skills
=> You appear more honest and transparent
=> You are able to set boundaries for your own good
=> You will be able to argue and delegate in a better way

Author's Bio: 

This article discusses in detail how assertive communication can help you deal with workplace conflict as well as family conflict resolution.