I am assertive in my communication, but also open to listening to the opinions of other people
Assertiveness is a valuable trait that can help you communicate effectively and achieve your goals. It involves expressing your thoughts, feelings, and needs in a clear and confident manner, while also respecting the opinions and boundaries of others. However, being assertive doesn't mean being aggressive or dominating. It means finding a balance between standing up for yourself and being open to different perspectives.
If you struggle with assertiveness, you may find it difficult to speak up in meetings, negotiate with others, or set boundaries in your personal relationships. You may feel like your voice isn't heard or that you're constantly being pushed around. However, by practicing the affirmation "I am assertive in my communication, but also open to listening to the opinions of other people", you can start to develop a more confident and effective communication style.
Assertiveness requires you to be clear and direct in your communication, without resorting to passive or aggressive behavior. This means using "I" statements to express your feelings and needs, rather than blaming or attacking others. For example, instead of saying "You never listen to me", you could say "I feel frustrated when I don't feel heard in our conversations".
At the same time, being assertive also means being open to listening to the opinions and perspectives of others. This doesn't mean that you have to agree with everything they say, but it does mean that you're willing to consider their point of view and engage in a respectful dialogue. By doing so, you can build stronger relationships and find common ground with others.
To practice assertiveness and openness in your communication, try to be mindful of your body language, tone of voice, and word choice. Speak clearly and confidently, but also listen actively and ask questions to clarify your understanding. Remember that assertiveness is not about being perfect or always getting your way, but about finding a healthy balance between your own needs and the needs of others.