Power

Power

Power, I've learned, is a term that is wildly misunderstood.  When we hear power, we often think of money, status, or physical strength.  We believe that we need to succeed on some performance level to gain it.  However, true power has nothing to do with a pay cheque, nor from a first prize trophy, and not from a career promotion (However, these things are attainable with the use of true power).  Power is something that is innate in all of us and can be accessed a lot easier than most would think.  

To me, true power is born out of love and acceptance.  When we love, when we care, when we accept, and when we understand we gain the most powerful tool of all; trust.  Think of the boss that dictates, and then think of the boss that acts as your support system, which of the two would you most likely feel comfortable around?  Which of the two would you more likely share ideas with? If you were fired, in which instance would you truly learn from your mistakes and take heed to criticism?  What real power does a boss who commands have over you?  They may have influence over your work chores, but would you really respect their opinions at the end of the day? In which instance, do you think, creates for a more effective, positive, and profitable working environment?

We all have this power inside of us that can lead us to wherever it is we want to go.  When we give love, we receive love.  When we dig deeper into how the people around us feel, and when we put ourselves in their shoes, we gain their trust and companionship.  Sometimes, you can gain that from just a friendly smile or conversation. What greater power is there than having an army of people standing at your side?  To motivate you, to encourage you, and to present you with endless opportunities.

Ironically, the definition of power that most of us seem to believe, is actually defined by the absence of power.  A person without power is the person who is overly confident, has a dominating attitude, bullies others, and who is dismissive or egotistical.  When love is not present, there is only fear.  That is where a lack of true power comes from - fear.  

Believe in yourself, and know that  you can accomplish anything in the world if you approach it correctly.  Be the person who holds their hand out, and not the person who points a finger and you will quickly discover how far you truly can go.