How to be more assertive?

[Anonymous]

How to be more assertive?

I’m always willing to help at my job but I feel myself drowning in work, when I could just say no or ask a nurse to do it herself. I’m a CNA, how can I be more assertive?

I don’t want to take shit from no one else, I want confidence. Can I build this at 26? I feel like a kid, cause these nurses are younger than me telling me what to do.

I’m pretty quiet, and avoid confrontation. I just hope I’m not “slow”.

[Oliverlogan263]

Girl, I totally hear you! Working in healthcare can be so draining, especially if you're not good at sticking up for yourself yet. But you're never too old to learn, and building confidence just takes practice.

Here are some tips:

- Own your worth! Remind yourself that you're a vital part of the team too. Your time and energy have value.

- Be solution-oriented when denying requests, not accusatory. Like "I'm sorry, I'm already backed up with Patient X, can you check on Patient Y?"

- Practice saying no firmly with confidence. "No, I won't be able to do that right now." Don't apologize for being at capacity.

- If nurses try to boss you around, politely remind them "I'm actually busy with..." You don't have to be rude, just assert your boundaries.

- Take breaks when you need them so you don't get burnt out. Your wellbeing matters too!

- Surround yourself with other confident CNAs you can learn from. We've all got room to grow, so don't compare yourself.

It'll take patience but you got this, girl! Own your skills and don't be afraid to speak up. In no time those nurses won't mess with you, henny! Just focus on you.