You just described me perfectly except I have to 'fake' this timid attitude sometimes because I come across too direct and others veer away or feel I don't like them. But I like people a lot! I have a very low tolerance for dishonesty and laziness and do push in that area like with my employees, but that doesn't mean I don't like them. It just means I expect their best which they don't always give. But even when they are doing well, I have to walk on ice to mention things they forgot or wasn't done well. I don't bring them up unless they're important to me but people are so senstive these days. I don't yell or say anything insulting or degrading - I'm just direct. I don't feel comfortable with the mush preparation of 'you're doing really great work and I'm not disastisfied with it, but can I fill you in on a couple of needs I have that you may have forgotten etc.... This is pathetic. If they're that sensitive I can't bare it. I need tougher employees. I like people who will fully hear me out and then tell me their opinion without being afraid. I 'd rather have a noisy disagreement than the hidden resentment and hurt feelings I get from most of my employees. Geese, can we be direct without hurtful intentions? Why is it received as though we are evil? It's so frustrating. I chase off so many gardeners, pool sweeps, housekeepers, office workers etc just by having high standards and expecting good work. I tell them when they do good too. And if I was the employee, I would want to know what my boss really needs and wants so I could know what to do to get that raise! Wouldn't you?