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Empower Your Voice: How to Assert Yourself Without Succumbing to Pressure

by TGJP

 

There’s a dysfunctional communication tactic that is becoming more common in the mainstream. This can be used in social media, during Q&A at public speaking events, “Meet the Author”, training, group facilitations etc….

Amid communication or dialogue….

Someone asks another person a question and then demands that the other person answer. 

Quickly!, they might add.

If the responder takes more than even three seconds to contemplate their answer, it is assumed to be a “win” or “gotcha” for the other side. 

Professionally,  personally, and educationally;  I have years of experience with this type of interaction. Even still, I am a student who keeps practicing.  We’re all human. 

I hope that this information helps or serves as a reminder to avoid allowing these instigators get in the way of your message serving others. 

Goals of Effective Communication

Elements of Effective Communication by Tonya GJ Prince by Tonya GJ Prince

 Allowing yourself to be pressured into providing unprocessed responses yields few benefits and more drawbacks. Those who employ this tactic often devalue responses that require time for reflection and consideration. However, the truth may be quite the opposite.

Being pressured or put on the spot can have several negative consequences:

Decreased accuracy: Ever regretted an answer you gave? When you’re rushed or pressured, you might not have enough time to carefully consider your response. This can lead to inaccurate or incomplete answers.

Increased stress: Feeling pressured to respond quickly can trigger stress and anxiety, which can impair your ability to think clearly and make sound decisions.

Diminished confidence: Constantly being put on the spot can erode your confidence in your own abilities and judgment. Sometimes the pressure (Quickly!) is designed to shake your confidence in your stance. Try to avoid falling for this stance. 

Communication breakdown: If you’re constantly pressured to respond quickly, it can lead to breakdowns in communication as you may not fully express your thoughts or ideas.

Impulsivity: Rushed responses can sometimes lead to impulsive decisions or statements that you might regret later.

In many situations, it’s important to take the time to gather your thoughts and respond thoughtfully and accurately rather than succumbing to pressure to answer quickly.
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