In the quest for success, assertiveness is a critical trait for achieving one's goals. This approach is not about unethical behavior or trampling over others, but rather about shedding passivity and embracing proactive measures to reach your desired outcomes. This article delves into the mindset shift required to become an assertive goal-seeker, emphasizing the importance of taking decisive action and maintaining flexibility in the face of obstacles.
To excel in goal achievement, one must adopt an assertive stance in their pursuit. This means engaging in decisive, proactive actions. It's important to clarify that assertiveness in this context does not imply physical aggression or confrontational behavior. Instead, it's about cultivating a mindset geared towards actively pursuing your objectives. Research has shown that assertive individuals tend to have higher levels of achievement and are more effective at reaching their goals. According to a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, assertiveness is associated with better job performance and career success.
The realization that new opportunities must be self-created is a powerful motivator. To achieve what you desire, you must first believe that a path exists and then take responsibility for forging that path through hard work and creativity. Waiting passively for opportunities to arise is a surefire way to stagnate. Instead, laser-focused action on your specific goals is required.
Rarely does a plan unfold without hiccups. Like a missile constantly adjusting its course, you must be willing to make corrections and adapt your strategies. This flexibility is crucial for overcoming the inevitable challenges and setbacks that arise. The ability to pivot and try new approaches when faced with obstacles is a hallmark of successful goal pursuit.
An aggressive approach also involves being bold when reaching out to others. For instance, when I noticed a gap in the market for backpacking books at a major retail chain, I didn't hesitate to contact the corporate office and pitch my book. While the outcome remains uncertain, the initiative taken could potentially lead to a national distribution deal. This anecdote illustrates that opportunities often come to those who are proactive, rather than those who wait for offers to come to them.
To reiterate, assertive pursuit of goals is essential. This can take many forms, such as:
These actions, among others, are proactive steps that move you closer to your goals. Merely contemplating your ambitions will not suffice.
In conclusion, assertiveness in goal pursuit is a dynamic and multifaceted endeavor. It requires a proactive mindset, the willingness to take risks, and the adaptability to navigate through challenges. By embracing these principles, you can significantly enhance your chances of achieving your goals and making your aspirations a reality.
Be Aggressive when Seeking Goals
When pursuing goals, a necessary step is to be aggressive. Not in a bullying, obnoxious manner with other people but one in which the goal seeker must be creative and assertive with him/herself in going after what is being sought. Look for ways to actively pursue your goals. Be persistent and think about ways, maybe out ot the box ways, to get where you want to be. Passivity is not the answer.
Academic and Student Affairs Collaboration
In many colleges a rift exists between Academic and Student Affairs with both areas drawing "lines in the sand" demarcating their specific areas of responsibility. However, education in the author's view is a holistic venture that should adress the student's academic and personal development. In this article he makes a case for collaboration between the two areas versus competition or little or no contact.
Persistence is the Key
When people are pursuing goals, the intial excitement can fade quickly if the process turns out to be especially difficult or long term. Discouragement and the tendency to give up can set in quickly. However, the number one trait of successful people is persistence, a "bull dog" attitude of continuing to progress until the goal is achieved. In this article the importance of persistence and the ways to develop it are explored.
