Owning Your Voice: Why Assertiveness Is Your Superpower

If you've ever walked out of a meeting thinking, "I should’ve said something," or found yourself agreeing to something you didn’t want to do—just to avoid conflict—you’re not alone.

For years, I thought being a great team player meant being easygoing. Saying yes. Going with the flow. Never ruffling feathers.

But here's the truth I wish I had learned sooner: Being agreeable doesn’t make you valuable. Being direct and having a POV does.

What Assertiveness Really Looks Like

Let’s get one thing straight: Assertiveness is not aggression. It’s not about being loud, harsh, or dominating.

Assertiveness is:

• Clear communication

• Respect for yourself and others

• Boundaries without guilt

• Speaking up, even when it’s uncomfortable

• And the best part? It’s a skill. You can build it with practice.
  

Three Small Ways to Start Being More Assertive Today

1. Say No—Without Apologizing

You don’t owe everyone an explanation.

2. Speak Up in Meetings

Don’t wait for the perfect moment or overthink your delivery.

It doesn’t have to be loud to be powerful.

3. Set Boundaries That Stick

Protect your time and energy. You don’t need to make excuses.

The more you do it, the more natural it becomes.

You Don’t Need Permission to Speak Up

Assertiveness isn’t about being “the problem.” It’s about being the person who knows their worth and acts like it.

So here’s your challenge for this week:

Pick one moment to practice assertiveness. Say no. Speak up. Set a boundary. Be clear.

And if you need support or want to hear more—check out episode E118 of Rabbit, Rabbit it's all about reclaiming your voice, with stories, strategies, and real talk to help you stop shrinking and start owning your it.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts HERE or your favorite podcast app