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Standing Up for Yourself (Politely)
Plus: Missouri sues Starbucks + Keep Calm
🎙️ Did You Know? On this day in 1431, Joan of Arc faced her first day of interrogation during her trial for heresy. Despite being just a teenager, Joan stood firm in her beliefs, defending her visions and her mission to lead France to victory during the Hundred Years' War.
Advocating for Yourself
Be assertive, not aggressive
Work is stressful enough without adding drama to the shift, but sometimes we really have no choice. The idea of speaking up at work can be nerve-wracking. What if you come across as pushy? What if it leads to conflict? But while it may feel uncomfortable at first, the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term anxiety.
The following are our honest suggestions, no affiliate links or kickbacks apply.
How to Advocate for Yourself
🗣️ Step 1: Master Effective Communication
Be clear and concise. Avoid vague language and get straight to the point.
Use “I” statements to express your feelings without sounding accusatory. For example, “I feel overwhelmed with my current workload and would appreciate some support.”
Practice active listening. Nod, maintain eye contact, and summarize what the other person says to show you’re engaged.
đź’ˇ Step 2: Prepare for Difficult Conversations
Plan ahead. Jot down key points and anticipate possible responses.
Stay calm and composed. If emotions rise, take a deep breath and pause before responding.
Focus on the issue, not the person. Keep the conversation constructive by addressing the problem, not personalities.
đź“‚ Step 3: Document Your Conversations
After any important discussion, send a follow-up email summarizing the key points and any agreed-upon actions. This ensures clarity and serves as a reference for future discussions.
⚡ RoadMap Tip: Foster positive connections with colleagues and superiors. A strong network can provide support and amplify your voice when you need it most.
Aimee Picchi
Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed a lawsuit against Starbucks, alleging that its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hiring practices violate federal and state laws. The lawsuit claims these policies have led to slower service and higher prices by prioritizing race and gender over qualifications.
The legal challenge comes amid a broader rollback of DEI initiatives in corporate America, with companies like Ford, Google, and Walmart scaling back programs following conservative pushback. Starbucks has denied the allegations, stating that its hiring practices are inclusive, fair, and focused on selecting the strongest candidates.
While critics argue that DEI policies lead to workplace discrimination, analysts attribute Starbucks’ operational challenges to inflation and complex drink customizations rather than hiring practices. CEO Brian Niccol has pledged to simplify orders and improve service times, while also reversing the company’s open-door policy, requiring purchases for in-store seating.
In stressful moments, when we feel wronged and tensions run high, it can be challenging to remain calm. However, maintaining composure in the workplace is essential. Reacting poorly to a problem can amplify the issue and work against you.
Staying level-headed is a skill that we can develop with intention and focus. Calm is here to help you. This mindfulness and meditation app is your go-to tool for reducing stress.
With features like guided meditations, sleep stories narrated by celebrities, and breathing exercises, Calm helps you create a daily routine that prioritizes mental health. It offers exclusive music tracks, nature soundscapes, and expert-led master classes to deepen your mindfulness practice. Plus, with mood tracking and kid-friendly content, it's a versatile tool for the whole family.