Assertiveness and self-esteem are two fundamental pillars in the field of psychology that are intrinsically related. Both skills are intertwined, influencing each other to build strong emotional well-being and healthy relationships In this article, we will explore the concept of assertiveness, its position between aggressiveness and passivity, the connection with self-esteem, and some strategies to encourage assertiveness.
Self-esteem is the basis of our health and our psychological well-being. We can define it as the emotional assessment that the person makes of himself, of her self-image and self-concept, expressing positive or negative feelings towards herself. Furthermore, this can also vary over time and in different areas of our lives.
Likewise, self-esteem is related to self-acceptance, self-respect, self-appreciation, the value one gives oneself and feeling capable of facing life’s challenges. When the person feels good about the image they have of themselves, we speak of healthy self-esteem, which allows them to interact with the environment in an adapted and balanced way.
Exploring assertiveness
The concept of assertiveness goes beyond the mere expression of opinions. It is defined as the ability to express one’s own thoughts, feelings and needs in a clear, honest and direct manner, understanding that the other person also has their own thoughts, feelings and needs. Furthermore, it is related to the ability to assert oneself and defend one’s own rights appropriately, without manipulating others or allowing oneself to be manipulated. The key to assertiveness lies in the word “Respect”: respect for oneself and respect for others.
This term not only refers to a way of communicating, whether verbal or non-verbal, but also to a way of expressing and behaving in coherence with one’s own thoughts and emotions. In this way, assertiveness becomes a tool for effective and respectful communication, being the style intermediate between passivity and aggressiveness.
Self-esteem and assertive, passive and aggressive styles
The connection between self-esteem and assertiveness is evident when exploring the two extreme communication styles of assertiveness: passivity and aggressiveness.
Other perspectives on the connection between assertiveness and self-esteem
Other ways of explaining the connection between assertiveness and self-esteem suggest that assertiveness acts as a catalyst for the development of the latter. By expressing themselves assertively, the person not only affirms their needs, but also recognizes their personal worth, thus contributing to a stronger self-esteem.
Furthermore, assertiveness contributes to building authentic, balanced and more harmonious relationships By expressing yourself honestly and respectfully, you lay a solid foundation for relationships based on mutual understanding and emotional support, crucial elements for healthy self-esteem.
Finally, it is important to keep in mind that assertiveness involves being authentic and accepting yourself. This authenticity not only fuels self-acceptance, but also contributes to building a healthy and positive self-esteem. In conclusion, if a person has a healthy self-esteem, he will be able to communicate assertively, and if someone habitually communicates assertively, he is taking care of her self-esteem. So, this is the relationship that exists between these two concepts that are so important for a person’s emotional well-being.
Key strategies to promote assertiveness
Exploring and developing assertiveness goes beyond mere conceptual understanding. To strengthen this essential skill in our interactions, it is necessary to adopt practical strategies that encourage its effective application. Here we present some keys to improve assertiveness and put it into practice in various aspects of daily life:
The clear expression of thoughts and feelings goes beyond verbalization. It implies congruence between what is thought, said and done, establishing a solid foundation for assertiveness.
2. Self-affirmation with consideration
Self-affirmation involves expressing opinions, needs and rights considering the other, without belittling them. Assertiveness becomes an act of self-love, recognizing one’s personal worth.
3. Say “No” in a respectful way
The ability to say “no” respectfully involves establishing healthy boundaries, recognizing and valuing one’s own needs without disregarding others.
4. Set limits clearly
Setting clear boundaries is a crucial part of assertiveness. The assertive person not only sets limits, but also communicates these limits clearly, fostering respect and mutual understanding.
5. Accept and respond to criticism with openness
Assertiveness includes the ability to accept criticism constructively and respond openly. This not only strengthens listening skills, but also contributes to personal growth.
6. Express positive feelings
Assertiveness does not only include the expression of negative feelings, but also includes the ability to express emotions, feelings and praise honestly with the people around us whom we appreciate.
summarizing
By viewing assertiveness as an integral component of our social skills and recognizing its deep connection to self-esteem, we embark on a journey towards emotional well-being, towards authenticity, self-respect and respect for others, to build enriching relationships. Assertiveness is not only a valuable tool in communication, it is a vehicle that guides us toward a deeper understanding of ourselves and others, that values respect for oneself and others, and that builds a bridge. direct towards a stronger and healthier self-esteem.
