ssertive communication

Assertive Communication and Finding Help

There are some basic steps to learning how to communicate in an assertive way. The more you practice these steps, the more comfortable they will become for you. Knowing how to find resources and how to ask for help by using assertive communication skills will enable you to make the most of the benefits available to you. Being organized and purposeful will help you make the best use of your resources.

Learning to be more assertive can help you understand, recognize, and effectively express your feelings when communicating with others about difficult issues. It also enables others to know what they can do for you. Being assertive can help prevent future conflict and reduce stress. It helps formulate clear and concrete objectives to obtain your goals. It can help you keep people from walking all over you. On the flip side, it can also help prevent you from steamrolling others. It is socially appropriate and not passive, aggressive, or hostile. Assertive communication considers your needs and the needs, feelings, and welfare of others. Because of this, using assertive communication can build your confidence, create win-win situations, improve your decision-making skills, and ultimately create stronger, more honest relationships.

There are some basic steps to learning how to communicate in an assertive way. If you apply these steps when you need to ask for help from your Family or friends, you will also find you can use them to ask for resources in the community. The more you practice these steps, the more comfortable they will become for you.

Everyone needs help at some point. Needing help doesn’t mean you are weak or incapable. Trying to do too much without the help of others can lead to anxiety and depression. Our society often gives mixed signals. We value self-sufficiency, but also honor helping others. People are social by nature and need a sense of community with others who are experiencing the same situation. Giving and receiving help when it is needed makes us part of that community. This chapter provides you with many resources for getting the help you need.

The military and your community have numerous resources available for you, your spouse, and your Family members. Knowing how to find those resources and how to ask for help using assertive communication skills will make the most of the benefits available to you. Being organized and purposeful will enable you to make the best use of your resources. Start the Module.



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