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Assertiveness in the Workplace

Author: Team xMonks | Published on: Mon, 12 Feb 2024 06:31:36 +0000

Assertiveness in the Workplace Image

Being assertive is a positive personality characteristic that helps individuals show their existence in society. People with this trait are aware of their rights, as well as the rights of others, and can reflect on this awareness. They are a benefit to both themselves and society. Being assertive is the happy medium between being aggressive and being passive. It involves standing up for something you value. It is a healthy, prosocial behaviour in the middle of a continuum. While no one enjoys being walked on, many dislike being overly aggressive. Respect comes from standing up for yourself. Not only will others respect you, but you will respect yourself for speaking up. You bring value, and what you say is impactful. Being assertive will get you what you want without having to dominate or demoralize someone. This set of skills will help you become more of an advocate, not only for yourself but for others.

Assertiveness does not impede another’s right to get what you want. It is not coming out as the champion of a heated argument (too many people need to understand this!). Assertiveness is knowing when and how to demonstrate your view. Positive assertiveness means working to meet your needs while also sometimes meeting the needs of others.

Some benefits of positive assertiveness include becoming a better leader, reducing conflicts, reducing frustration, relieving stress, increasing the quality of your relationships (at work and in your personal life), and getting more of what you want in life.

Why should you be Assertive in the Workplace?

Being assertive allows you to solve the problem of being misunderstood. Going forward, this can positively influence the following beneficial characteristics that impact social adjustment: expressing oneself, being self-confident, being accepted by others, and being approved by others in social areas. On the other hand, allowing yourself to be non-assertive will threaten interpersonal relationships, and emotional problems will arise; lowering self-esteem can even be a ‘time bomb,’ which at any time can threaten the continuity of one’s personal and social relationships and mental health, namely, the risk of anxiety and stress.

Being passive may mean someone suppresses their feelings and pretends that everything is okay. A lack of assertiveness may induce anxiety and stress. Consequently, being non-assertive may affect workplace relationships because one party could feel used by another.

How to be more Assertive at Work?

While assertive skills come naturally for some individuals, these skills can be developed through practice. The first important step is to understand one’s own personality. Of course, this comes from asking a few questions to oneself and answering them honestly, regardless of whether that answer is likeable or not. Ask yourself questions such as:

Finding the right time and cause will be critical. Pushing back against every minor detail could lessen your advantage when speaking up for topics you are passionate about. If you assert yourself at every turn for unimportant issues, being assertive is less likely to work when needed. Choose your battles. Listed below are 5 steps to help you be more assertive at work-

The Take-Home Message

Assertiveness calls for conviction. It will lead to a happier and healthier life. You will gain confidence and self-respect. You will be viewed as a leader, and others will seek your opinion. Being more self-assured and being able to advocate for yourself is for everybody and everybody can attain it with a little bit of practice if it is not already present within. Assertiveness is a part of the personal potential and it is a prerequisite for self-actualisation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Assertiveness is about standing up for your own needs and rights in a respectful and calm manner. Aggression, on the other hand, involves attacking or dominating others to get your way.
Start by practicing using “I” statements to express your needs and opinions clearly. Learn to say “no” when necessary and be comfortable setting boundaries. Practice active listening and being respectful in all interactions.
Absolutely! It’s important to express your thoughts and perspectives, but always do so respectfully and professionally. Being assertive can help you gain recognition and respect in the workplace.