Interesting Psychology Team
At every moment of the day, we have the power to make decisions that either assert our ideas or keep us quiet because we hesitate about voicing our desires aloud. Sometimes, you might choose to do the latter just to avoid an argument. However, by always going with the flow and never taking a stand for yourself, you’ll only diminish your self-worth and feed into your insecurities.
If you want to feel empowered to take charge of your life, you need to learn to stand up for yourself. By practicing the following simple, yet powerful steps, you’ll be able to take a stand in any situation.
1 – Practice Being Transparent And Authentic
Isn’t it tiring when you always have to put on a fake smile and hold back what you truly want to say? Instead, try being honest. Though it can be challenging at times, it will lift a ton of pressure off your shoulders.
By being open about whatever’s on your mind, you’ll slowly become a more authentic person– someone people will want to listen to. Also, try to build balance in your habits by not being too combative or too submissive. That way, your ideas will resonate a lot better with others.
2 – Take Small But Powerful Steps
Sometimes, it can be scary to put yourself out there and be assertive. But, by starting with small steps, you can get there. A great way to begin is to try walking with more confidence. Hold your head high and pull your shoulders back. Not only will you look more confident, but you will feel that way, too. This feeling can quickly translate into all areas of your life.
Next time someone rudely cuts in front of you while your waiting in line, instead of ignoring it, you’ll feel more confident to politely ask them to move to the back of the line.
3 – When Someone Attacks, Wait Them Out
The more confident you become, the more you’re going to stop those who want to walk all over you — especially those whose personalities are constantly fiery and offensive.
When dealing with such people, it’s crucial to keep a cool head.No matter what you do, don’t let them get to you, or allow them to drag you down to their level – with low blows of your own. At the same time, don’t let them intimidate you into giving in either. You can take the high road while staying assertive.
4 – Figure Out What’s Really Bothering You
You might think that avoiding a potential conflict can diffuse the tension, but it only serves to increase your levels of stress and worry. Even though it takes lots of guts and bravery to confront whatever’s bothering you, doing so will enable you to improve the situation and minimize the control it has over you.
Remember that people cannot read your mind. So, unless you say something, they may never realize what’s making you uncomfortable.
5 – Clarify First, Without Attacking
It can be super tempting to blow up at someone who you believe is clearly in the wrong. To you, it might even be justifiable to defend yourself because you’re in the right. That said, you have to make sure that you don’t let your emotions take over and cloud your rational judgment.
Instead of losing your cool, take a moment to breathe deeply, and calmly explain your point of view. Do your best to avoid passive aggressiveness and harsh words. As soon as you say what’s on your mind, you have to listen and let the other person speak without interrupting. That’s how a meaningful discussion can take place.
