What is Meant by Self Assertion

Let us understand more about the Self Assertion global dimension that emerges from Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire

Self Assertion encompasses several traits that help people stand up for themselves in their social and professional lives.People who are more aware of their strengths and capabilities, and know what they want, are in a better position to take the right decisions of their lives. People who are more attuned to the subtle signals that indicate the need of others, tend to have more fulfilling relationships

The three global factors that constitute this dimension are:

1. Interpersonal skills: This is a measure of one’s ability of forming and maintaining relationships with others. While some of us are able to form multiple relationships, we may lack the ability to maintain them. One may also feel ill-equipped at  forming new relationships, but may be good at maintaining existing ones. The key is to find the right balance. It is important to remain authentic at all times.  People who have good relationship skills can easily share their emotions and feelings. They feel comfortable in groups and communicate without difficulty.
2. Assertiveness: Being assertive is the ability to express oneself and make one’s voice heard without being unnecessarily aggressive. Assertive people are able to assimilate into any group very easily. They are able to share their feelings and opinions more effectively. People who are effective on this factor are always aware of the situation which demands them to be assertive. Without this awareness, being excessively assertive can be seen as being arrogant.
3. Self-confidence: Simply put, this is a having a strong belief in ourselves and our abilities. This belief in the self helps us tackle challenges and unexpected events without any self-doubt. This helps in a significant way to surpass our own objectives. At times, this may be seen by others as an inflated sense of the self.

A high score on the dimension of self-assertion has a positive impact as:

• One is capable of working effectively in a team. They enjoy working with other people.
• Contextual awareness is high. As such, they know the depth of their relationships
• Similarly, they also know when to be assertive as much as when not to be
• Self confidence helps in overcoming challenges and setting new limits of their capabilities.

A low score on this dimension may have the following impact:

• Working in a team, or with other people may be a challenge. They would be better off working on tasks on their own. Minimising the number of interactions with others, or making it possible to interact with a minimal number of people, would increase the effectiveness
• They may end up agreeing with an opinion or a decision to avoid a discussion. This is not in their best interest or of others involved.
• Low self-confidence may result on giving up attempting tasks that are very much achievable with their knowledge, skills and capabilities.

In future articles we shall discuss the various lessons that are available to improve oneself on all the three factors of Self Assertion