The power of assertiveness: daring to say no with mutual respect

Training Theme 

This training develops assertiveness by helping participants set healthy boundaries and say “no” without guilt. It addresses the psychological barriers that prevent us from expressing our needs and offers practical, respectful communication techniques. Through instructional videos, reflective exercises, and tools such as the 5-step “soft” method, participants learn to clarify priorities, communicate clearly, and maintain balance between personal and professional life. By combining theory and practice, this course fosters sustainable behavioral change.

Training Objectives 

In this course, you will learn how to:

• Set boundaries and say no in a factual, clear, and calm manner.
• Stop saying “yes” when you actually mean “no.”
• Clarify your priorities and communicate them effectively to avoid conflicts and unnecessary justifications.
• Use 6 techniques to say no respectfully and assertively.
• Listen to your inner voice to understand what you truly want and where to set limits.
• Express your needs and decisions confidently, without manipulating others.

Target Audience 

Anyone wishing to improve their quality of life and relationships.

Means and Methods 

• E-learning Modules: Consisting of text, videos, interactive content, and quizzes designed to help you achieve the defined learning outcomes.
• Additional resources: Downloadable documents such as the coaching memo sheet (PDF).

Training Content 

This module contains 4 parts:

DISCOVER

• Identify your personal challenges and motivations for change.

SHAKING UP

• Storytelling: Video “Naomi’s Limits”, 2'18
  • Naomi’s story highlights the difficulties of setting clear boundaries despite knowing how to say “no.”
• Quiz on barriers to establishing healthy boundaries.
• Reflective exercise: The successes of saying NO.
• Reflective exercise: Not daring to say NO.

LEARN

• Expert video: Setting limits and saying no, 8'16
  • Exploration of common obstacles, strategies for assertiveness, and techniques to respond to inappropriate attitudes.
• The soft method: 5 practical steps to say no confidently.
• Quiz and TRUE/FALSE activity on assertiveness.

ANCHOR

• “Are you really helping?”: 4 key questions to evaluate a request for help.
• Use real-world examples to define your own personal commitment to change.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

• Downloadable documents:
  • Coaching memo sheet (PDF)
• Bonus: TED or Youtube video(s)"