1 in 5 people set a new year’s resolution to lose weight! This is closely followed by getting out of debt. 52% are confident they can keep their resolutions. Only 12% make it. This is according to a study by Psychologist Richard Wiseman from the University of Hertfordshire. So why do we do it? Historians tell us
Acknowledgement lets someone know you notice their presence and contribution. Appreciation says, “Thank You” for their efforts. Affirmation takes acknowledgement and appreciation further by reinforcing the desired behaviours of the other person. So, how do you practice Affirmation? Many people confuse Affirmation with Praise, or even Flattery. What’s the difference? Very simply, Flattery is largely
Have you watched the reality show "The Apprentice" by US Presidential-hopeful Donald Trump? “It’s not personal, it’s just business!” was his trademark line as he dismissed contestants from the show. In the same vein, many organisations operate with the assumption that professionalism requires an emotional detachment from the work; therefore, a negative result or critical
The core of Assertiveness is ultimately about respect as Aretha Franklin has been belting out as early 1967. Being respected is a fundamental need in interpersonal relationships. In Asia, that must include the concept of 'face'.
Questions are the way to go in building assertiveness. The trick is presenting your questions in a way that will be best received. Are you ready?
Traditional Asian values tend to advocate harmony and order. Harmony and order, in turn, are defined as each strata of society plays its part in obedience and submission; individualism is typically frowned upon and the whole is valued more than the individual. The bottom-line is that as much as a 'Western'-style 'speak up for your rights' assertiveness is acceded to, it is still incredibly difficult for much of Asian culture steeped in traditional values to do so.