Why do I worry about appearing too pushy at work?
Feeling hesitant to assert yourself at work often stems from a desire to be liked and to avoid conflict. This can be particularly strong if you've been conditioned to prioritize others' comfort over your own professional needs. It's a common internal conflict between ambition and the fear of negative social perception.
Research from the Harvard Business Review suggests that women, in particular, often face a 'likability penalty' when they assert themselves professionally, impacting their perceived competence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between being assertive and being pushy?▾
Assertiveness involves advocating for your own needs and opinions respectfully, while also considering others. Pushiness often disregards others' perspectives or feelings in favor of getting your own way, sometimes aggressively.
Does ambition shame affect career progression?▾
Yes, ambition shame can hinder career progression by making you reluctant to take on new challenges, advocate for promotions, or express innovative ideas, potentially limiting your visibility and opportunities.
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