5. Consolidating Assertiveness

1. Think of a time recently when you were assertive. Recognise how you used that skill possibly without even being aware of it. Give yourself recognition for the resilience you already have.

2. Steadily practice your assertiveness skills... validating others, active listening, saying no assertively, making assertive requests. Describe the facts of the situation, Express your feelings about the situation, Assert what you want and tell how you will still make sure you will be okay if request is not granted. Stay mindful, negotiate... give up things of lesser value to get what you value the most. Don't avoid life... keep practicing assertion skills as much as possible.

3. Remember one situation that assertiveness may have brought a more favourable outcome for you. In hindsight what skills would you use and how would you apply it. Visualise yourself managing the situation in a more assertive way and achieving a good outcome. This will improve your confidence as well as your learning.

4. So what is the area of your life you find it most difficult to be assertive? Boss? Partner? Children? Doctor? Teacher? Colleague? Pick one thing small aspect that you would like to tweak a little. Plan how you are going to be assertive and be confident. Try not to scare the other person. Human's are terrified of change so the more gently you can change, you will generally be met with least resilience. Start small and in areas where you have a high chance of success so you can build your confidence as you give your assertiveness skills a whirl.

5. Identify random ways in which you would like to be assertive.


What are examples of assertiveness skills to you? How can we be most effective?

I need to learn how to listen more and understand better where someone is coming from before dogmatically trying to impose my very strong ideas. People trust people who ask questions, listen, and validate where they are coming from. If someone doesn't feel heard by me they are much less interested in what I may have to say. What skills would you like to develop in regard to assertiveness? We can discuss anything you are unsure about...

thank you jade fore this post it brings me back to the basics the very important ones :)

yes it did very much. Yes i have been able to get some sleep and rest after getting it notched down quite a bit. I have never had many issues with having hypomanic or manic episodes but they seem to keep increasing. I was always more on the depressive side. I appreciate you help greatly