Don’t Act Like Prey! Be Assertive! (11)

There are, of course, costs associated with being aggressive.  Costs are individual.  What is a cost to you may not be to someone else.

Possible costs include:

• ·         A simple question to ask regarding spouses, is, if you were aggressive, would you want to be married to you?  That may sum it up!
• ·         With children, remember you are setting the standard.  If you are aggressive with them, disrespectful of them, they may fear you.  They may rebel.  They may grow up to think it is acceptable to be treated this way.  Or, they may become a bully and treat others aggressively.
• ·         Parents can be difficult!  Even if you do not agree with what they have done, respect that they probably did the best they could.  Being aggressive with them now probably won’t change a thing.
• ·         If you treat friends aggressively, why are they still with you?  What does that tell you?
• ·         Being aggressive with your supervisor is dangerous and can get you fired.
• ·         Being aggressive with employees will drive away the good ones.  The ones that are left will probably be trying to sabotage you.
• ·         Of course, being aggressive with customers is not acceptable.

When we are aggressive, when we do not respect others, it hurts us as much as it hurts them.  Life is about relationships.  Being aggressive may not “kill” relationships immediately, but if we attack enough, eventually the person will leave us, if not physically then emotionally.

What stories would you like to share related to the costs you incurred by being aggressive?