Assertive Ambition
How to lead with purpose and precision
The word “bossy” often carries negative connotations, conjuring up memories of a domineering figure or an unpleasant work environment. (Thankfully, I’ve been an entrepreneur for most of my life!) But I believe there’s an opportunity to redefine the concept of being “bossy” and explore the idea of assertive ambition as a positive self-leadership trait.
By being specific, clear, directive, and guiding, you can become the best boss you’ve ever and embrace a new perspective on leading with purpose and precision.
Ready? Here are three compelling ways in which assertive ambition can benefit your business and elevate your bottom line:
1 ASK: I’ve mentioned this one before. Asking is a powerful yet underutilized tool for success. If you want something, whether it’s knowledge, assistance, or a desired action from your audience, don’t hesitate to ask.
By asking questions, you open the door to valuable answers and opportunities for growth. Without asking, you limit your own potential and hinder progress. Embrace the power of asking and watch your business thrive.
2 Tell People What to Do — Specifically: Being specific and directive is crucial when conveying your expectations or desired outcomes. Your readers, listeners, or viewers may not always know what you want from them unless you make it clear.
As a writer or content creator, you can employ effective calls to action to guide your audience and engage them in meaningful ways. These calls to action can include inviting them to share their thoughts as a comment on your posts, join webinars or newsletters, or even connect with you directly.
By providing clear instructions, you create opportunities to add value, establish connections, and build mutually profitable relationships.
3 Know Exactly What You Want and Need: To leverage every opportunity that comes your way, it’s essential to be prepared.
Imagine someone offering assistance and saying, “If there’s anything I can do for you, just ask.” While this statement is often made out of politeness, what if you took it literally and were ready with a specific response?
By knowing exactly what you want or need and how others can help you, you can maximize these opportunities. Whether it’s introductions, access to resources, answers to questions, invitations, or referrals, being clear about your goals enables you to articulate your needs and establish mutually beneficial relationships.
And remember, you don’t have to wait for someone to ask before reaching out and asking for what you need.
Assertive ambition is a powerful leadership approach that empowers you to lead with purpose and precision. By transcending the negative connotations associated with being “bossy,” you can harness its essence as a catalyst for effective self-leadership.
Ask, be specific, and know what you want and need. By implementing these approaches, you will unlock new opportunities, enhance your business, and ultimately boost your bottom line.
So, channel your inner boss in the most respectful and mutually beneficial way possible, and start asserting your ambition to achieve the success you desire.
My greatest passion is to expand what women believe is possible through entrepreneurship and self-leadership. If this post has inspired you in some way, I hope to meet you in the comments. Your thoughts and feedback are appreciated.
If you enjoyed this story, you might like this one too! 👇
Not a Medium Member? Join us on the other side of the paywall and enjoy unlimited access to ALL of the goodness Medium has to offer. Membership is just $5/month and when you use my referral link I earn a small commission.
