Kind vs. aggressive in the workplace: myths about performance

One of the myths that still persist in the modern workplace is that aggressiveness is a predictor of success. The legacy of the Alpha leader, depicted as a symbol of power and affluence, still has a grip on today’s beliefs about work. Kindness, on the other hand, has a bad reputation. It is often associated with weakness and lack of strength. But could kindness help us achieve some things that aggressiveness cannot?

Myths about aggressiveness

Some core assumptions about the aggressive work style make it so alluring. It is often associated with being a go-getter that is unafraid of pursuing goals, getting things done and sticking to objectives. Two aspects are problematic with these suppositions. First, there is often a confusion between an aggressive strategy or business model and aggressiveness as a personality trait. You can deliver a bold plan without being an ‘office warrior on steroids’. Second, a distinction must be made between forcefulness and aggressiveness. Ultimately, being aggressive often translates into being over-confident, leaving people out from processes and creating a hostile environment.

Myths about kindness

The story about kindness goes the opposite way. It is seen as a personal trait that hides oversensitivity, a lack of assertion and less…