Power

There are two types of power, Position Power and Personal Power. Position power is the power associated with the role held in an organization. A formal position that has authority over others. Personal power comes from within. “One’s inner, self-sourced sense of authority that remains stable and durable regardless of the outer situation.”[i] Power is relevant topic for leaders because it can be abused. Emotional intelligence (EQ) and personal power play fundamental roles in whether position power will be misused. Misuse happens when means, motive, and opportunity collide with lacking both EQ and personal power. Emotions and needs drive behaviors; motive is the key to explaining how power is used.

[i] Power: A User’s Guide, Diamond, Julia, Belly Song Press, 2016.