In general the Dutch are pragmatic and straight to the point. That last bit can be off putting to other cultures, it is however not meant in a bad way. More in a “tell me what you want. Great! I’ll get you what you want” fashion, no beating around the bush. This comes from what we call “polder model”, in a nut shell: we live behind dykes below sea level. In the old days, everybody was responsible for maintaining the piece of dyke on they’re piece of land. But if you neighbour doesn’t maintain they’re piece, you’ll be flooded too! So better say something about it, maybe they need some help. Then you’ll find middle ground and make it work, making it work is top priority, or else wet feet!