How to Change from Passive to Assertive Communication
✅ 7 Steps to Move from Passive to Assertive Communication
1. Know Yourself
- Ask: "Do I always say yes even when I disagree?"
- "Do I feel bad when I say no?"
2. Replace Negative Thinking
- Passive thinking: "If I say no, they won’t like me."
- Assertive thinking: "I can respect others and still respect myself."
3. Use "I" Statements
- Say: "I feel...", "I need...", "I prefer..."
- This shows you own your thoughts and feelings.
4. Practice Saying No Politely
"Sorry, I can't help with that right now."
"I understand what you need, but I can’t agree to that."
5. Role-Play Common Situations
Try practicing with a friend or in front of a mirror. Example:
"I’m sorry, I already have plans. Can we reschedule?"
6. Track Your Progress
- How do you feel after being assertive?
- How did others respond?
7. Be Patient and Keep Practicing
- Change doesn’t happen overnight.
- Start small and build confidence.
📌 Comparison Table
| Behavior | Passive | Assertive |
|---|---|---|
| Voice | Quiet, unsure | Clear, confident |
| Opinion sharing | Rarely speaks up | Speaks honestly |
| Response to pressure | Gives in | States boundaries respectfully |
If you want, I can translate this into Khmer or add more examples for the construction field.
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