Skill

Speak Assertively

Say what you think, feel, or need clearly without becoming passive, aggressive, or controlling.

Before you use this with another personUse communication, repair, return, or contact only when it is lawful and the other person is willing. If a court order limits contact, location, or communication, follow it exactly. A coping or communication skill never creates permission to call, text, message, visit, follow, return, or use another person to pass a message.
What it is

Assertive communication is clear, direct, respectful, specific, and non-threatening.

How to do it
Describe what happened.
Name what you felt.
State what you need or prefer.
Keep your tone respectful.
Leave room for the other person to respond.
Try It Now
Remember
Assertive means clear without control.
Want to understand this more deeply?

Chapter 5: Communicate Better

Read the story and teaching behind this skill, then come back here when you want to practice it.

Read chapter

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