To be truly assertive and self-confident is to exude confidence in your words and actions. Both traits should permeate your thoughts, feelings, and actions daily. Being assertive is about learning to speak up for yourself and make your voice heard. Importantly, it is the ability to maintain the right balance between your needs and the needs of others. Self-confidence is about being your genuine self—embracing who you are without hiding or pretending to be someone else. It requires the courage to be real and authentic in all aspects of life.
Numerous studies have shown that developing both assertiveness and self-confidence can lead to increased overall health. These traits help you manage stress and difficult emotions more effectively. They enable you to set healthy boundaries, ensuring a better work-life balance, and enhance your ability to influence and persuade others.
However, many people struggle with establishing these traits due to various factors such as childhood experiences, life events, and environmental influences. Despite these challenges, assertiveness and self-confidence are learnable skills. With the right knowledge, techniques, and consistent practice, you can cultivate these qualities and improve your overall well-being.
Learning outcomes
- Discuss the Importance of Assertiveness for Personal and Professional Success
- Explore the key differences between assertive and aggressive behaviour.
- Analyse how your belief system influences your behaviour and interactions.
- Learn strategies to identify and correct cognitive distortions.
- Clarify the distinctions between self-confidence, self-efficacy, and self-esteem.
- Explore techniques to enhance Assertiveness and Confidence.
Open to all. For any enquiries email angela.beattie@port.ac.uk