THe power Test

How are you channeling the power and influence you've been given? For some, power is a zero sum game. They believe that if they give power away they lose it and the other gains it. This type of thinking keeps a leader from having true influence in other's lives. Instead of using power for others they use it over others. They overpower, control, manipulate in order to retain and gain power. Eventually, the people they are leading will feel like the leader is only concerned with their own self interest.

A leader who uses their power for others reveals their intent by empowering, apprenticing and liberating (unleashing) those whom they lead. Their intent is directed outwardly toward others. Their power investment creates growth in the people and teams they lead, which results in their increased influence. As they use their power for others they gain it back through increased influence. Leadership is ultimately about influence!

Are you viewing power as a zero sum game? How have your actions revealed your intent? In what ways might you need to redirect your power to others rather than self?