Getting What You Want
1 Ask for what you want. Rather than waiting to be recognized for your efforts, or expecting someone to consider
your needs, step up and ask. This doesn't mean you should demand what you want or be aggressive. Instead,
confidently and tactfully choose your words.[8]
Don't confuse being bold with being aggressive. Aggressiveness often involves imposing your viewpoints or actions
on others. Boldness has nothing to do with the people around you. It's about overcoming your fears and taking
action.
2 Negotiate. The phrase "What can you do for me?" is an easy and powerful way to throw the onus of responsibility
back on the person you're negotiating with. Even if the initial answer is "no," keep the window of opportunity open as
long as possible to give them an opportunity to change their mind.
Plan out counter-offers before you start negotiating. If you think your boss will reject your request for time off
because there's no one to fill your place, say you'll double-up a shift when you get back, or that you'll complete
tasks remotely when you have free time.
3 Offer two choices. One of the best ways to get what you want is to simplify the number of solutions to a given
problem. This ensures you'll get what you want.
Even if there are an unlimited number of possibilities for a given problem, limit them to the solutions that work for
you. This will cut down on the amount of hassle that goes into the solution and ensure that the outcome is what you
want.
4 Take risks and create opportunities. There's a difference between being reckless and accepting risks. Reckless
people don't accept risks because they don't even think about them. A bold person, on the other hand, has learned
about the risks, and decided to go through with the decision anyway, ready and willing to accept the consequences if
things don't work out.[9]
Inaction or hesitation is often a kind of risk, because you're risking missing an opportunity. This is a risk to avoid,
however. Your goal is to create your best chance of success, not whittle away at your window of opportunity.
When you've made the choice to act, do it without fear.
5 Ask questions. There's nothing bold about blundering into a situation you're ignorant about and not listening to
advice. If you're unclear about an assignment or about a topic at work or school, boldness is being willing to admit that
you're confused and asking for clarification.
Don't be afraid to take the bold step of getting help. If someone is unhelpful, find another person. This persistence
to find the answers shows boldness on your part.[10]
6 Accept any outcome. While there's power in taking on something new or trying to get what you want, there's also the
chance you may fail. Embrace the failure. It's not the opposite of success, it's a necessary component. Without the
risk of failure, you don't have the opportunity for success.[11]
Don't worry about rejection. This requires some emotional detachment from the outcome. Don't let a rejection
destroy your self-confidence and ability to be bold.