BY MIA ZHANG
I used to be a pushover, always saying yes even when I wanted to say no, like that time my boss asked me to stay late to finish a project; it's time to learn assertiveness, standing up for yourself without being rude.
I used to over-apologize for everything, but I learned that excessive apologies made me appear weak and unsure of myself, so it's essential not to use "sorry" as a filler word in your vocabulary.
Humility is valuable, but research shows that excessive modesty can make you seem less competent, so it's essential to acknowledge and confidently share your achievements without crossing into bragging.
I used to prioritize others over myself, but I learned the importance of self-care and saying no when needed, as it's essential for my well-being and doesn't make me a bad person.
I used to fear confrontation, even when it meant accepting less than I deserved, but I've learned that it's essential for effective communication and problem resolution, and it's time to stand up for myself and ensure my voice is heard.
I used to feel guilty about self-care, thinking it was selfish, but I've learned that self-love is essential for our well-being, enabling us to care for others effectively.
I once sought external validation for my work, but I've learned it's essential to find intrinsic motivation and self-pride, as our worth isn't determined by others' opinions, and it's crucial to overcome these behaviors to take control of your workplace experience.