Assertiveness Skills: Step Two

2. Don't Judge or Exaggerate

Being factual about what you don't like in someone's behavior, without overdramatizing or judging, is an important start. The same is true for describing the effects of their behavior. Don’t exaggerate, label, or judge; just describe:

Inappropriate response: “Now, lunch is ruined.”

Assertive communication: “Now, I have less time to spend at lunch because I still need to be back to work by 1:00.”