The Art of Everyday Assertiveness Quotes

“Being assertive is understanding that you can’t control what others may do, but you can control your own behavior.”
― Patrick King, The Art of Everyday Assertiveness: Speak Up. Say No. Set Boundaries. Take Back Control.

“Assertiveness is asking for what you want, turning others down, and making decisions that are right for you without anger, threats, manipulation, or fear of repercussions.”
― Patrick King, The Art of Everyday Assertiveness: Speak Up. Say No. Set Boundaries. Take Back Control.

“Dr. Beth Polin, an assistant professor of management at Eastern Kentucky University and coauthor of The Art of the Apology, defines an apology as a statement that includes one or more of six components: An expression of regret: This is the actual “I’m sorry” statement. An explanation: This is a clarification of what happened, not a justification. An acknowledgment of responsibility: In other words, owning up to your mistakes. A declaration of repentance: For example, “I truly regret what I did.” An offer of repair: “Maybe I can turn this around.” A request for forgiveness: “I know I messed up, but I’m truly sorry and I’m asking your forgiveness.”
― Patrick King, The Art of Everyday Assertiveness: Speak Up. Say No. Set Boundaries. Take Back Control.

“psychologist Susan Krauss Whitbourn suggests that, when asking for something, it is crucial to consider the person we are asking. Are their needs being considered? How can this request benefit them? Is this a good time to make such a request? If the tables were turned, how would I view this request?”
― Patrick King, The Art of Everyday Assertiveness: Speak Up. Say No. Set Boundaries. Take Back Control.

“It’s your right to change your mind. What was possible when you agreed to something might not be possible anymore. This is normal in a world where things are constantly changing. It’s a shame to inconvenience someone, but you have to look after yourself.”
― Patrick King, The Art of Everyday Assertiveness: Speak Up. Say No. Set Boundaries. Take Back Control.

“It’s your right to not justify your behavior with excuses. You don’t have to give reasons or agree to things you don’t want to do because you’re worried that your reason doesn’t seem good enough. If you don’t want to attend an event because you want to spend quality time with your dog, that’s valid and no one can judge. You don’t owe someone something just because your justification doesn’t align with their values.”
― Patrick King, The Art of Everyday Assertiveness: Speak Up. Say No. Set Boundaries. Take Back Control.

“Confrontation, which is often the one thing victims want to avoid most, is inevitable. Victims will have to confront their own fears, senses of obligation, and feelings of guilt. Likewise, they are going to have to confront the blackmailer. While these are daunting tasks, victims must assert themselves in order to break the cycle.”
― Patrick King, The Art of Everyday Assertiveness: Speak Up. Say No. Set Boundaries. Take Back Control.