Direct is not the same thing as demanding. Direct means knowing what you believe and stating it clearly. It means fearless in speaking the truth that needs to be said. It does not, in and of itself, carry any expectations of the other. Demanding carries an implication that my way is right and you’ll follow it. It implies you are requiring something of the other.
There are moments to be demanding, though far rarer than many leaders think. There is rarely a bad time to be direct.
BUILT TO LEAD 