IDENTIFY THE SITUATION YOU NEED TO EXERT YOUR ASSERTIVENESS
Example., when you need to say “no”
When you are being sidelined in a queue
When your request is being ignored in a shop
When your spouse refuses to do their share of housework
IDENTIFY WHAT YOU WANT OUT OF THAT COMMUNICATION
Use “I” statements…” I feel” “I think”;
Be clear about your needs and communicate slowly without using labels
Communicate what you can offer and be clear about curbing expectations and setting boundaries
Repeat like a broken record if required
Practice at home
Example., Your relative wants you to give him 10,000 rupees for his son’s wedding. You want to refuse but feel bad about communicating this to him.
You can practice a similar script at home and communicate this with him.
“ I am sorry that I cannot give the specified amount for your son’s wedding. I understand this is important to you but giving this amount is not possible. As a pre wedding gift I can offer 1000 rupees” .
( It has an I statement, a clear NO, acknowledging THEIR needs but communicating yours and negotiating a midway. Curbing expectations and setting boundaries are part of the process).
Any attempts to repeatedly ask for 10,000 rupees should be communicated with a similar script again like a BROKEN RECORD
