You want more power?

7 Rules of Power

First, get out of your own way.

Many people have a negative perception of having power.
Power by itself is neutral.
It depends on how we use it.
When power is used for the betterment of society, we need more people with more power.

We often struggle with imposter syndrome or an inner critic.
🟠 Afraid to speak up during a meeting, ask yourself why.
🟠 Not comfortable sharing your achievements, ask yourself why.
🟠 Not asking for a promotion, ask yourself why.

Many of us fall into the trap of Authenticity.
🟠 We believe that Authenticity is in conflict with being powerful. You can have both simultaneously.
🟠 "Be true to what others want you to be" may be more important than "to be true to yourself" (You may have to think about this one...Leaders adapt their styles depending on who they are working with instead of sticking to their own rigid styles)

Many of us are overly concerned about whether others like us.
But likeability is a double-edged sword.
🟠 Being liked is a source of power.
🟠 If you are pursuing it too much, you can be seen as less competent.

Acknowledge and accept who you are but not let that identity to define who you will be forever.

Thank you Dave Lu for recommending the book "7 Rules of Power" by Dr. Jeffrey Pfeffer.

In my coaching for Women In Tech, I often work with them to get out of their own way to elevate their power.