I hope this message finds you well and ready to embrace another insightful tip in our journey toward enhancing our emotional intelligence.
This week, we delve into a crucial yet often misunderstood aspect of interpersonal communication: Assertiveness. Assertiveness is not about dominating conversations or bulldozing others with our opinions. Rather, it's the art of expressing ourselves thoughtfully, with clarity and confidence, while respecting the perspectives of others.
The Misconception of Assertiveness:
Many confuse assertiveness with aggression, believing it requires a loud voice and a hard stance. Yet, true assertiveness is intellectual rather than emotional. It's about stating our needs and opinions firmly and respectfully, without allowing our emotions to cloud our message. I understand this personally; there have been times when, in moments of wanting to assert myself, especially on matters close to my heart, I've felt overwhelmingly emotional, to the point of tears. However, I've learned the power of taking a moment, breathing deeply, and then presenting my thoughts calmly and logically. This isn't just about self-control; it's about mental fitness and the ability to navigate our emotions intelligently.
A Revealing Statistic:
A fascinating statistic sheds light on the nuances of assertiveness and its implications in professional settings: "Men apply for a job when they meet only 60% of the qualifications, but women apply only if they meet 100%." This observation, cited by reputable sources like the Harvard Business Review and Forbes, and highlighted in Sheryl Sandberg's Lean In, underscores a significant confidence gap that often hinders women from stepping forward unless they feel entirely qualified.
“The Big Ask”: A Journey Toward Assertive Empowerment:
This very statistic was a catalyst for me to start my podcast with a friend and collegue. "The Big Ask." The mission was clear: to embolden women to assertively ask for what they want and rightfully deserve. It's about finding our voice, our confidence, and recognizing that no one is more invested in our success than we are ourselves. Assertiveness is our tool to ensure our needs, desires, and contributions are not just heard but acknowledged and valued.
Let’s face it – you’ve got to put your Big Ask Out there! No ask is EVER too big!
Your Takeaway:
As we navigate our personal and professional lives, let's remind ourselves of the power of assertiveness. It's about being our own advocates, our biggest fans, and taking charge of our narrative. Remember, it's not just about what we ask for but how we ask for it. Assertiveness, with its blend of confidence and respect, is the key.
Let's challenge ourselves this week to practice assertiveness in a situation where we might typically hesitate. Notice the difference it makes, not just in the outcome, but in how empowered you feel.
Keep Shining – Put Your Big Ask Out There!
Be who you came to be.
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