Assertiveness is expressing yourself and satisfying your own needs while not hurting others in the process. People who cannot have their needs satisfied or who perceive that their basic human rights are violated will be stressed by that situation. The use of the DESC form can help you organize a verbal assertive response. Standing straight and speaking clearly, fluently, and without hesitation can convey assertiveness nonverbally.
Conflicts resolved to only one person's satisfaction are not effectively resolved. A three-step approach to resolve conflict is effective in satisfying both people. This approach entails active listening, identifying the points of view, and exploring alternative solutions.
To improve communication, check out your impressions of someone's nonverbal messages, plan time to have discussions, listen better, begin disagreeing by stating a point of agreement, substitute the word "and" for the word "but," use "I" statements, and avoid "why" questions.
Time management skills involve setting goals and prioritizing them, making schedules, saying no when that is appropriate, delegating tasks, reviewing materials only once, limiting interruptions, and assessing how time is now spent.
Social support is belonging, being accepted, being loved, or being needed all for oneself and not for what one can do. It is having people to whom you feel close and with whom you share your joys, problems, apprehensions, and love. Social support can help protect you from the negative consequences of stress.
