Turn the Other Cheek

I'm too critical and confrontational.  I like to face differences and problems head on.  If you have a problem with me, tell me.  If I have a problem with you, you'll know it.  If you have a problem with one of my kids, watch out.


Admittedly, this is not an attractive quality to possess.  I realize I turn a lot of people off with my assertiveness.  There are times I wish I wasn't so outspoken, usually after I have been.  I just don't know how people keep their feelings bottled up, though.  Don't they realize it can be destructive to oneself to do that?  Sure, it can be hurtful to relationships to be so forward, but what good is a relationship that isn't authentic? 


I'm usually not even trying to convince someone to agree with me.  I just have this inner need to speak my mind, regardless of popular opinion.  I don't really care if someone disagrees with me.  I welcome it at times.  I like a good debate.  I am sometimes accused of stirring the pot or opening a can of worms.  That's not my intention, either.  I just refuse to sit idly by without making my feelings known. 


I need to work on more tactful ways of being myself.  How can I voice my opinions without creating a negative reputation for myself?  I need to be slower to anger and more accepting of differences.  Once again, just another character trait I need to work on.