Assertiveness

Assertiveness is the trait of possessing self-assurance and self-confidence without needing to be aggressive. However, as this trait does not come easily to many people it can be beneficial to to engage in assertiveness training. This training (which is being increasingly used by personal development specialists and behavior therapists to help improves self-esteem) concentrates on the skills of self-assertion such as speaking up for yourself or your point of view without aggressively attacking others or permitting yourself to be dominated. It is possible to learn these skills if they aren't present naturally. We have all known people in our lives that exude self-confidence and rarely get angry but get what they want. These are individuals who possess a healthy self-esteem and self-assurance. Assertiveness training involves teaching the participant to identify their needs and opinions while remaining calm and respectful to other people.