Healthy Ways to Stand Up For Yourself

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Standing up for yourself is essential for self-respect, boundaries, and mental health—but it doesn’t mean being aggressive or confrontational.  There is a BIG difference between confronting someone and having a conversation with someone.  Here are healthy, confident ways to do it:

1. Use Assertive Communication

  • Speak clearly and directly without being rude.
  • Example: “I feel uncomfortable when that happens. Please don’t do that again.”

🗣 Use “I” statements:
Instead of “You’re always interrupting me!”, try “I feel unheard when I’m interrupted.”

🧍‍♀️ 2. Set Boundaries and Stick to Them

  • Know what’s okay with you—and what’s not.
  • Politely but firmly reinforce limits. Example:
    “I’m not available to talk after 9 PM. Let’s catch up tomorrow.”

💬 3. Say No Without Over-Explaining

  • You don’t owe people long excuses.
  • A simple “No, I can’t right now” is enough. Respectful, clear, and confident.

🧠 4. Stay Calm and Grounded

  • Even if someone pushes back, try not to react emotionally.
  • Deep breaths, relaxed body language, and eye contact go a long way.

🪞 5. Know Your Worth

  • Remind yourself: Your feelings, needs, and values matter just as much as anyone else’s.
  • Confidence isn’t arrogance—it’s self-respect.

🛑 6. Walk Away If Needed

  • If someone won’t respect your boundaries, disengage.
    “This conversation isn’t productive right now. Let’s take a break.”

👂 7. Listen, But Don’t Back Down

  • You can acknowledge someone else’s view without surrendering your own. “I hear you. I still feel this isn’t okay with me.”

🔄 8. Practice with Small Things

  • Assertiveness is a skill. Start with low-stakes situations (e.g., sending food back, disagreeing politely) and build from there.

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