According to social and communication training
Assertiveness is a trait that enables people to voice their viewpoints without undermining those of others. In a way that other people do not find confrontational or offensive while maintaining their principles, an assertive person may stand their ground and fight for what they believe in, whether for themselves or others (Bishop, 2013). Anyone should develop the talent because it is useful in everyday interactions with others and even in leadership roles.
In the event that my rights collide with those of others
I make sure they are aware that their viewpoint matters. Explaining my position to them allows them to understand my views even if they do not agree with them. If somebody annoys me in any way, I tend to retreat before responding to their offense. Being quick to respond and especially in the heat of anger usually leads to saying words that were not intended and cause conflict. When wanting something to happen but others are not in agreement I tend to allow for them to also express their preferences. When others see that they can express their preferences to someone of a different opinion and not get frowned upon for that, they give respect (Decety, 2012). When confronting differences or issues the language used is usually the key to whether the discussion will be a success or not. The language has to be focused and to the point not forcefully or aggressively so that it is received as a message and not dictation on what to do or what I want individually. Having a problem-focused responsible talk ensures that the listeners get to hear out the problems and offer solutions that are not biased in reaction to how the message was conveyed to them(Decety, 2012).
As a leader being assertive
is one of the major ways I am required to carry myself so that I can effectively communicate to the ones under my guidance. People bring up many issues and differences to my attention and some I agree with while others I do not but still as a leader it is required that I deal with the matters assertively while focusing on the core of the problems. It came to my attention a few weeks ago that many workers at my company wanted to work only for only six hours minus the weekends but still retain their salary as usual. Although I found the idea appealing, I had to sit them down and tell them politely that it was impossible for them to work fewer hours and still expect the same salary. By calmly speaking to them, I made it clear to them that their idea could not materialize and much even though apprehensive at first saw my point and agreed with it at the end.
My neighbor accused my mother
of not being responsible and leaving the gas leaking when in a real sense it was my small child, I became very defensive and even got into an argument with them. It would be great if as an individual I would be able to be more assertive with family matters. The family is a sensitive spot for me, and I get emotional when defending my family which most likely may result in losing my cool and being a bit aggressive.\\n
References
Bishop, S (2013). Develop your assertiveness. London, United Kingdom: Kogan Page
Publishers.
Decety, J. (2012). Empathy form bench to bedside. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.
