For Those of you that are "Too Nice"

[Anonymous]

What if you are simply shocked at certain behavior (on the spot)? How do you learn different retorts? How do you set it up so that people know not to f*ck with you?

[Anonymous]

PP here. I'd love to take an assertiveness class. Any ideas?

[Anonymous]

I would, too! Somebody make this happen!

[Anonymous]

Marry someone who is very assertive. They will not want to see you taken advantage of so they'll be sure to let you know when it's happening, and their attitude will start to rub off on you. At least that is what happened with my DH.

[Anonymous]

You have to be okay with everyone not liking you. It's hard for me, too.

As to PP and the MIL issue - if people are accusing you of being a bitch, I'd guess that by the time you're frustrated enough to say no, you're unable to do it in a diplomatic way and come across really bitchy or super defensive. If you can say no before you're full-on pissed, it'll be a lot better received.

[Anonymous]

OP here. That's it PP! I was far more assertive before I married DH. His family can be quite "bullyish", but I digress. ie: they are predictable, boring and really not my problem. What can we do to improve in this area? I also don't want a spouse giving false praise (which would be equally bad, in my book).