I remember one day in class, a former classmate told me that I can sometimes come off as bossy. This was weird for me to hear because no one has ever called me bossy before. Unfortunately in college, high school or in general, certain things that you say or do may make it seem like you’re something that you’re not. Whether people want to get to know and understand you outside of a school/office environment, is their choice. But you as a person know how you are, how you deal with things and so on.

At first I took offense to it because I don’t think I’m a bossy person. I do believe that in group activites and assignments that I am the one to sort of communicate with others on certain aspects of the project and progress of the project. Being on top of things, getting things done, communicating with others is a big process itself and important in group assignments. Your grade is depending on those in the group. Of course, I’m going to make sure that things are getting done. It’s effecting my GPA!

I don’t necessarily assign myself to be the leader in groups, but sometimes because no one else will step up, you just need to take on that responsibility. I can recall one time where I was in a group of three and the professor told the groups to choose a leader. I asked those in the group if they wanted to be the leader, both people in the group turned to me and said no, it’s been decided you’re the leader. I asked why, and they both agreed that I was better at keeping things organized and communicating with everyone.

I guess what I’m trying to say is that there is a difference (at least for me) between bossy and being responsible enough to get things done. Bossy to me is someone who thinks they are superior to others in the group and sort of brings down others. Being responsible is communicating with all people in the group(s), making sure people are doing what they need to, working with those around you and being normal about it. I don’t think I’m any better if I’m assigned to be leader; I just will make a point to contact those who need to be contacted in the group. Being responsible is about staying on the same page and level with those that you are working with.

Outside of college, outside of the side jobs you may have, you need to be able to communicate with others, plan things, get organized and so on. That’s not being bossy, that’s being a mature and responsible adult. To me there’s a difference. At first it did offend me but I learned that it shouldn’t, to a certain extent. Being able to juggle different tasks, be assertive and communicate with others is something everyone should learn to do. All those things will come in handy once you set foot in an office space/“adult” world. You can be leader and grow with your team. To be successful you should know how to be a leader yet be a teammate. You all work toward success. I could go on and on about this topic but I’ll just leave it and make it simple.

No, I’m not bossy. I just know how to get things done. There is a difference.