I'm a very direct and assertive person. I strive to be a good communicater with my family and with others, although I'm definitely a work in progress. I think you should ask for what you want 100% of the time and be willing to hear "NO." I'm always working on myself through a meditation practice using 8 important points; Mantram, Meditation, Slowing Down, Training the Senses, Putting Others First, Reading of the mystics, Satsang, One pointed attention, and I struggle to practice non-violent communication with all, but especially with my kids. I'm an attachment and homeschooling parent as well as an organic food junkie. :)