It means knowing one's goals, putting in efforts to achieve the goal in such a manner that ones' abilities are utilised to the fullest possible extent. Interference, insubordination and hurdles arise in work situation because the person has not mastered the skills required for the job. In addition these may be problems of keeping self-control, poor work habits and lack of discipline. To be assertive one must be effective in his job. Inappropriate emotional reaction interferes with work performance.
General tensions can produce fatigue, irritability and poor judgement.
One must be able to relate to peers, subordinates and superiors. This will enable the person to work with, through or against it to achieve particular goals. How To Be Assertive Make it easy for people to do what you want them to do - If you want to ask your boss for a raise, put in an impeccable performance so that it is easier for him to say yes to you. In fact the other person may not even realise the harm his behaviour is doing. It is a positive reinforcement for the self-esteem also.