People with a rare blend of assertiveness and empathy often exhibit these 7 subtle yet powerful behaviors

There’s a unique blend of traits that sets some people apart. It’s the rare combination of assertiveness and empathy.

Assertiveness allows them to stand their ground and get their point across without stepping on others’ toes. Empathy, on the other hand, enables them to understand and share the feelings of others, making them great listeners and relationship builders.

People with this rare blend often exhibit a set of behaviors that are subtle yet powerful. And these behaviors can be transformative in both personal and professional situations.

So let’s dive into the seven subtle yet powerful behaviors exhibited by people who possess this rare blend of assertiveness and empathy.

1) They know the power of active listening

Active listening is a fundamental trait of people who carry a balance of assertiveness and empathy.

This isn’t your everyday, run-of-the-mill kind of listening. It’s not about simply hearing the words that are being said. Active listening is about fully engaging, understanding the context, and reading between the lines.

People with this blend often exhibit this behavior because they understand that it’s not just about getting their point across. It’s also about truly understanding the other person’s perspective.

And they do it so subtly that you might not even notice it. They make you feel heard, understood, and valued.

The power lies in the fact that when people feel heard, they are more likely to be receptive to your views as well. This is a powerful tool for influence without a hint of manipulation.

But remember, active listening must be genuine to be effective. It’s about empathizing with the person you’re communicating with and showing them that their input matters.

2) They aren’t afraid to show vulnerability

People who possess this unique blend of assertiveness and empathy are not afraid to show their vulnerability. It’s a powerful behavior that helps them connect with others on a deeper level.

Let me share a little story from my own experience.

I remember having a tough conversation with a colleague about a project that wasn’t going well. I was assertive about what needed to change, but I also admitted that I was feeling stressed about the situation.

I didn’t try to hide my worries or pretend that everything was under control. By showing my vulnerability, I was able to connect with my colleague on an emotional level, which fostered understanding and cooperation.

This experience taught me that it’s okay to let your guard down sometimes. Being vulnerable doesn’t make you weak, it makes you human. And it’s this human connection that can influence others in a positive way.

3) They leverage emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence, or EQ, is a critical component of this potent blend. It’s the ability to manage and use emotions in positive and constructive ways.

People with high EQ are skilled at perceiving, understanding, and managing their own emotions and those of others. This leads to better decision making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.

Research has found that emotional intelligence is responsible for 58% of job performance across various professions. In fact, people with high EQ often outperform those with high IQ.

This is because those with a strong EQ are better equipped to navigate relationships, be it with colleagues, partners, or friends. They can assert their ideas without stepping on others’ feelings, creating an environment of respect and understanding.

4) They practice empathy, not just sympathy

Empathy goes beyond sympathy. While sympathy is feeling compassion for someone’s situation, empathy is putting yourself in their shoes and understanding their feelings.

People with a rare mix of assertiveness and empathy are masters of this. They don’t just recognize your feelings; they understand them because they can imagine what it’s like to be in your position.

This behavior fosters deep connections and trust because it shows that they truly care about you and your experiences. It’s not a tool for them to push their agenda; it’s a genuine desire to understand others, which ultimately influences how others perceive and respond to them.

5) They express gratitude genuinely

Gratitude is a powerful tool. And those with the blend of assertiveness and empathy know how to use it well.

A few years back, I worked on a project that was particularly challenging. The team was under pressure, and morale was low. It was during this time that I discovered the power of genuine gratitude.

Instead of focusing just on the problems, I made a conscious effort to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the team. I made sure to express my gratitude for their efforts, even when things were tough.

This small act had a huge impact. It didn’t just improve the mood; it also increased motivation and productivity. By acknowledging their efforts, I was able to influence their attitude towards the project positively.

People with a rare blend of assertiveness and empathy understand this power. They know that a heartfelt thank you can go a long way in influencing people’s attitudes and behaviors.

6) They demonstrate assertiveness, not aggression

There’s a fine line between being assertive and being aggressive, and those with a blend of assertiveness and empathy know how to walk it.

Being assertive means expressing your thoughts, beliefs, and needs in a respectful manner. On the other hand, being aggressive often involves disrespecting or disregarding the feelings of others.

People with this rare blend are able to firmly express their views without infringing on the rights or feelings of others. They understand that their voice is important, but so is everyone else’s.

This respectful approach leads to positive influence as it creates an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. It encourages open communication and fosters mutual respect.

7) They maintain a balance between giving and receiving

The most important thing to understand about people who possess a rare blend of assertiveness and empathy is their ability to strike a balance between giving and receiving.

They are aware that relationships, whether personal or professional, are a two-way street. They aren’t pushovers who only give, nor are they self-centered individuals who only take.

Instead, they understand the importance of mutual respect and reciprocity. They listen and offer support when needed but are also comfortable expressing their own needs and wants.

This balanced approach fosters healthy, productive relationships where both parties feel valued and respected.

The art of balance

The dance between assertiveness and empathy is a true art form, and those who master it often navigate the world with a unique grace.

It’s not about being aggressive or passive, but about finding a balance. It’s about standing up for yourself while also understanding and respecting the feelings of others.

This balance might not be easy to achieve. It requires a deep sense of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the ability to empathize with others.

But the rewards are worth it. Relationships become more meaningful, communication improves, and influence becomes a tool for positive change rather than manipulation.

So, as you reflect on these seven behaviors, remember that assertiveness and empathy are not opposing forces but two sides of the same coin. Together, they can create a powerful blend that can influence others in a positive and respectful manner.

May we all strive to find this balance in our interactions. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about getting our way, but about creating an environment where everyone feels heard, respected, and valued.

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Picture of Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling

Ethan Sterling has a background in entrepreneurship, having started and managed several small businesses. His journey through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship provides him with practical insights into personal resilience, strategic thinking, and the value of persistence. Ethan’s articles offer real-world advice for those looking to grow personally and professionally.

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