By Jeremy Pollack, Pollack Peacebuilding Systems
Assertiveness is the ability to express your thoughts, needs, and opinions in a respectful and confident manner, while still considering other people’s perspectives. It is an essential quality for effective communication, conflict resolution, and building healthy relationships at work. But, it's crucial to differentiate between assertiveness and aggression.
Assertive individuals possess several key traits and behaviors that distinguish them in the workplace. These enable them to express their needs without resorting to aggression. Some of these behaviors and traits include: Confidence and Self-awareness, Active Listening Skills, Emotional Intelligence and Empathy, Calmness and Emotional Control, A Solution-Oriented Mindset, and setting boundaries in a respectful but clear way. These don’t sound aggressive, right? There’s no bullying, yelling, or manipulating.
Assertiveness is a healthy middle ground on the spectrum between avoidance and aggression. It’s the middle way, and ultimately the healthy way to communicate about your needs while considering other people’s needs as well.
This insightful short video on You Tube is worth watching!