Poor communication can cause personal loss, misunderstanding, and conflict. There are three widely recognized styles of communication: passive, aggressive, and assertive. Passive communicators tend to be overly agreeable in order to avoid conflict, which might lead to the speaker denying one’s own needs and goals. Passive communication can result in embarrassment and a loss of self-respect. Aggressive communication falls on the other side of the spectrum. The communicator ignores the needs of others in order to satisfy their own needs, which can negatively impact relationships and result in feelings of anger or guilt. The most effective style of communication is assertive communication, wherein both parties respect each other’s needs. An assertive communicator will stand up for oneself when needed but will not fail to recognize the other’s goals. Successful communication can result in healthy relationships, self-respect, and confidence. Therapy can be helpful to improve assertive communication.