This week kicks off a two-part series on communication styles — and I have a feeling it's going to hit close to home for a lot of you.

In Part 1, we're diving into aggression vs. assertiveness — two styles that get confused all the time, and not just by one type of communicator. Whether you tend to come in too hot or you hold back more than you should, this episode is for you.

Here's what we cover:

Defining the difference

Aggression is communication driven by dominance, control, and the need to win. It shuts people down and invites defensiveness. Assertiveness, on the other hand, is driven by clarity and respect — it's direct and open. One is about winning; the other is about dialogue.

Why the confusion exists

If you're more passive, you might mistake assertiveness for aggression — it can feel huge even when it lands as totally clear to those around you. If you lean aggressive, you might assume you're "just being direct." Neither perception is accurate, and that gap is where communication breaks down.

Real-world examples

I walk through 10 side-by-side scenarios — from disagreeing in a meeting to setting a boundary to giving direction to your team — so you can hear the difference between aggressive and assertive language. No notes needed; you'll feel it.

How to course correct

• If you tend toward aggression: slow down, pause before responding, listen more, and ask yourself — am I trying to win this, or solve this?

• If you tend toward passivity: start small. Voice one opinion in a meeting where you'd normally stay quiet. Remember, silence is not neutral — especially if you're in (or aspiring to) a leadership role.

The mindset reminder

Progress over perfection. None of us has a perfect communication style in every situation. This isn't about being hard on yourself — it's about being honest with yourself, and then stretching.

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