Susan (not her real name), a director at a manufacturing company, found herself navigating a common yet delicate workplace challenge. She pushed back on a request from a partner team; in her email, she explained that resource shortages and prioritization concerns prevented her team from accommodating it. To her surprise, her manager later provided feedback that her response came across as rude. In corporate environments, the ability to push back is often regarded as a hallmark of strong leadership. Done thoughtfully, it reflects assertiveness, strategic thinking, and professionalism. Yet for many—particularly women, minorities, and those from cultures that emphasize deference—pushing back tactfully can feel like walking a tightrope. Having faced…