5 Things Men Should Be Assertive About

Time to Stand Up, Player

Assertiveness is the ability to stand up for your own rights and needs in a way that is respectful of others. It is important for men to be assertive in order to be successful in their personal and professional lives. Here are 5 things that men should be assertive about:

1. Their boundaries. Men should be assertive about their boundaries, both physical and emotional. This means saying no to things they don’t want to do, and setting limits on how they are treated. For example, a man should feel comfortable saying no to a friend who asks him to help them move if he is already busy. He should also feel comfortable setting boundaries with his partner about what is and is not acceptable behavior.
   
2. Their opinions. Men should be assertive about their opinions, even if they are different from the opinions of others. This doesn’t mean that they have to be argumentative or aggressive, but they should be able to voice their thoughts and feelings in a clear and confident way. For example, a man should feel comfortable speaking up in a meeting even if he is the only one who disagrees with the decision that has been made. He should also feel comfortable sharing his opinions with his partner, even if they don’t agree with him.
   
3. Their needs. Men should be assertive about their needs, both physical and emotional. This means asking for help when they need it, and communicating what they need from others. For example, a man should feel comfortable asking his partner for a massage if he is stressed. He should also feel comfortable communicating his needs to his boss if he is feeling overwhelmed at work.
   
4. Their goals. Men should be assertive about their goals, both short-term and long-term. This means setting goals, making a plan to achieve them, and taking action. For example, a man should feel comfortable setting a goal to lose weight, and then making a plan to achieve that goal by eating healthier and exercising regularly. He should also feel comfortable communicating his goals to his partner and friends, so that they can support him in achieving them.
   
5. Their rights. Men should be assertive about their rights, both as individuals and as members of society. This means standing up for themselves against discrimination and injustice, and speaking out against inequality. For example, a man should feel comfortable speaking out against sexual harassment in the workplace, or against racial profiling by the police. He should also feel comfortable voting for candidates who support his values, and participating in protests and demonstrations to make his voice heard.

Assertiveness is an important skill for men to develop in order to be successful in their personal and professional lives. By being assertive about their boundaries, opinions, needs, goals, and rights, men can create a more positive and fulfilling life for themselves.

Here are some additional tips for men who want to be more assertive:

• Practice makes perfect. The more you practice being assertive, the easier it will become. Start by practicing in small, low-stakes situations, and then gradually work your way up to more challenging situations.
  
• Be prepared. Before you have an important conversation, take some time to think about what you want to say. This will help you to stay calm and confident during the conversation.
  
• Use “I” statements. When you are expressing your opinion or needs, use “I” statements instead of “you” statements. This will help you to communicate your message in a way that is respectful of the other person.
  
• Be respectful of others. Even when you are being assertive, it is important to be respectful of the other person’s feelings. Avoid name-calling, insults, and aggressive behavior.
  
• Be persistent. Don’t give up if someone doesn’t respect your boundaries or needs the first time you ask. Continue to be assertive until you get the results you want.

Assertiveness is a skill that can be learned and developed. By following these tips, men can become more assertive and create a more positive and fulfilling life for themselves.