Assertiveness.

"What is assertiveness?

Assertiveness is an attitude of mind and a way of relating to others. It's an attitude that says, in short 'Here I am, a person with unique gifts to give to the world. Who are you? What do you bring?' It is a positive, optimistic attitude, valuing yourself and others, seeking respectful communication with others, yet at the same time able to set boundaries, to protect yourself from exploitation, attack and hostility

Asserting yourself means:

*you can say 'Yes' when you mean yes and 'no' when you mean no. You don't agree to things you don't like, or give up things you do like, in order to please someone else.
* you can communicate clearly to others what you are feeling and what you want from them, in a calm way.
* You don't let a fear of conflict silence you. You are prepared to take the consequences of communicating your feelings and wants.
* You can do this because you feel good about yourself. You feel entitled to be here, to be who you are, and to express what you feel. And because you assert yourself, you feel good about yourself.
* You can set clear boundaries, and feel entitled to defend them if they are attacked.
* You enjoy life and have no difficulty in taking pleasure. You can give and receive both compliments and criticisms, learning from both."