Standing up for yourself is an important skill. You can use assertiveness to get a promotion at work, you can use it when you think you are being overcharged at a retail store or you can use it when someone is attempting to sabotage your weight loss efforts.
You can be assertive and still be nice. Confrontation does not have to be uncomfortable or make you feel put on the spot. If you feel something is wrong you need to be comfortable enough to speak up and voice your concern.
Take a Deep Breath – Before standing up, take a deep breath and try to relax. No one is going to hurt you for speaking up for what you feel is right.
For the Children – If it helps, remind yourself that you are teaching your children how to stand up for themselves. You want them to be wonderful, strong adults and the only way they will learn to do that is watching your example.
Talk Slowly – When you speak up for yourself and stand your ground, don’t talk too fast and rush through what you are trying to say. People have a difficult time understanding when you speak quickly and are full of emotion.
Write it Down – If you know you are going into a situation where you need to stick up for yourself and state your case, write down important points so you don’t forget them if you become nervous.