Self-Assertiveness In The Workplace

Self-assertiveness in the workplace benefits both the employer and the employee. I had a boss who asked me during my interview if I would be honest with him in the event that I disagreed with him. He wanted self-assertive employees; he didn't want to miss out on valuable feedback and creative initiative. He worked at creating an organizational culture that supported self-esteem and the practice of self-assertiveness. Elements of that culture included that it was ok to make a mistake as it was an opportunity to learn, it really was safe to disagree with the boss, autonomy was encouraged, and creative problem solving was rewarded. At this point in time, this organization has survived economic challenges, and I do think that the culture is one of the factors that enable it to survive.
Here are some typical answers, gathered by the expert on self-esteem Nathaniel Branden, given to the question, what would you do if you were more self-assertive:
-I'd be more candid.
-I wouldn't drag my feet about declaring bad news.
-If I didn't understand, I'd ask questions rather than pretend I knew.
-When I knew something impossible was being asked of me, I'd say so on the spot.
-I'd be more honest about my feelings.
-If someone wasn't doing the job that was needed, I'd e faster to react and insist on better performance.
-I'd be clear about my expectations and lay them right out there.
-When I knew I had done a good job, I'd make sure my bosses knew about it.
-I wouldn't be wishy washy about presenting my ideas, I'd stand up for them.
What would you do if you were more self-assertive? How would it impact your work, your self-esteem and your relationships? Let me know!