When you’re confident, it is easy to stand up for yourself, but for those of us with a little more anxiety, this can be a little trickier. If this sounds like you, don’t worry–start by learning these 17 phrases that confident people use to stand up for themselves.
“No”
A simple yet powerful statement, Mindful claims that “no” is a complete sentence, and confident people will leave it at that. There is no need for an explanation; the word “no” says it all. It instantly asserts boundaries and directly enforces your feelings, and can be imperative in standing up for yourself.
“I won’t tolerate being disrespected”
Confident people are firm about setting boundaries and will not tolerate disrespect at any time. This phrase is an appropriate way to call out another’s disrespect and reaffirm the boundary with that person. It is assertive yet respectful to both parties.
“I disagree”
When someone makes a point that you disagree with, tell them. Directly saying ‘I disagree’ immediately shows that your points of view do not align. Language Tool considers that, while disagreeing with someone can be really nerve-wracking, confident people openly express this, so you should too!
“I need some time to think about it”
Those with confidence never feel any pressure to make a decision quickly. Some things take time to consider and shouldn’t be rushed into. A confident person will have no issue stating that they need to take the time to think about a situation and will take all the time necessary.
“I’d like to hear what you have to say, but can I finish?”
Being interrupted is incredibly rude, especially when you have an important point to say. Someone with confidence has no issue calling out someone who has interrupted them. A conversation is a two-way street, and while the other person’s words have value, so do yours, and you should be heard.
“I can’t make it”
If you don’t want to attend a social event, you don’t have to, but as natural people pleasers, we find it difficult to let people down. However, confident people value their time and see no value in coming up with an excuse, so they’ll just say bluntly, “I can’t make it.”
“I’m open to suggestions”
Constructive criticism is extremely important to our growth and development, but a lot of the time, it can be taken negatively. Those with confidence are self-assured enough that they can take criticism without having their ego dented, and may even say “I’m open to suggestions” to actively seek advice on improving.
“I made a mistake”
It takes a strong character to own up to your mistakes, but confident people can do just that. Admitting that you were wrong without passing the blame takes a lot of courage, but ultimately, it is respected. Openly stating you made an error shows that you are confident enough to take accountability.
“I don’t know”
No one knows everything, but many like to pretend they do due to pressures to maintain an image that we have confidence in ourselves. However, it’s actually more confident to admit we have absolutely no idea. Such honesty will be respected and will help you avoid some sticky situations.
“I’ll take it into consideration”
When people give us advice or criticism, we can take what we value and leave the rest. You can use this phrase confidently to show the person criticizing you that you will take their comments on board without minimizing your own values and opinions.
“No challenge is too big”
Confidence inflates faith in one’s abilities, and those who have it feel they can do anything they put their mind to. They are determined enough to overcome any obstacle, but others may not always disagree. Using this phrase will help you to showcase your confidence, demonstrating self-belief and a can-do attitude.
“I believe in myself”
When no one else believes in you, the self-belief of the confident never fails. This phrase shows others that you have 100% faith that you will succeed, even if they don’t. Positive Psychology even claims that such self-confidence permeates every part of your life, helping your belief to radiate.
“I have a vision”
If someone doesn’t see what you’re seeing, it’s irrelevant. You should have confidence in your own vision and know that it will work out, regardless of whether anyone else shares that view. When someone else doubts you, there is no reason to doubt yourself; just remind them, “I have a vision”.
“I’m not afraid to take risks”
Other people often doubt that we can handle a situation when we know we can, so confident people will use this phrase to highlight that they have the strength and the character to take on the challenge. They’re aware that there is an element of risk, but it isn’t enough to deter them.
“I am proud of who I am”
We will all be judged on a regular basis, but the opinions of others shouldn’t detract from who we are. Asserting that you are proud of who you are can shake people’s judgments of you. It is an extremely confident move that only those with the strongest character can address.
“I stand by my decision”
Being confident in your decisions means that you will stand by them, no matter the consequences. Inward Consulting argues that standing by decisions is a strong leadership skill that requires incredible confidence. When someone uses this phrase, it shows they are not second-guessing themselves, even if others are.
“I am deserving of success”
Finally, always remember the following affirmation: “I am deserving of success.” Some people are quick to knock us down in life, and this is often due to jealousy, a common trait in those with low self-esteem. Don’t let anyone extinguish your light, and say this phrase out loud if you’re ever having doubts.
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