Being assertive doesn’t mean to be outspoken ,whats needed is you speak when needed example knowing when to share your emotions, your needs, how actually feel rather than suppressing it, you will have to believe you have a “voice and opinion” which should be heard and valued then only you will be able to call them your friends

dear Neha this comes from our inate need of being heard and nothing is wrong there. first of all don't feel guilty about it. next work on your communication a bit to learn the art of communication. sometimes it's not what we say, its about how we say that matters. also look into this aspect- were you heard when you were a child? of not work on that inner child you can book a 1 on 1 session to heal this child in you . happy to help