Positive; affirming confidently; affirmative; peremptory.

inclined to bold and confident assertion; aggressively self-assured; "an energetic assertive boy who was always ready to argue"; "pointing directly at a listener is an assertive act"

confidently aggressive; "too assertive as a salesman"; "his self-assertive and unflagging energy"

(versus aggressive). Being assertive means to insist on your rights or respect for your opinions, or to demand recognition. Being aggressive means being openly hostile, or attacking someone with little or no reason. Aggressive behavior can be very destructive to relationships (or objects!). In contrast, assertive behavior respects the other person's rights but forcefully insists on recognition of yours as well. Being assertive can actually help relationships by clarifying your needs and preferences for other people. However, sometimes it can be difficult to be assertive but not aggressive.

Way of relating to people which is empowering, without being manipulative or aggressive