Power and all that stuff...

Having been part of the Corporate incubator for over 20 years, I have always been fascinated with Leadership and more particularly the concept of Power. I have witnessed many people without the traditional sense of power (e.g. position, money, status, sex etc.) who have the ability to effortlessly influence and guide people. They seem somehow 'sorted' and strong in the non-traditional sense. Not necessarily charismatic or great orators, but their energy has a mobilising and collaborating effect. We never seem to disagree in a performance meeting on what these individuals bring to the Company. The hour-long debates should tell you something about a person...they do not have it yet.

My theory is that notwithstanding the traditional leadership traits and development initiatives, we are dealing with people who are authentically themselves. They have learned how to stand comfortably in their own skin. They are OK with the good, the bad and the ugly - and it shows! These people are not perfect, they make mistakes, but they are real and true to themselves. They are less afraid of what people think and more concerned about not betraying themselves. They face their fears and they share their journey - and who does not love to see courage in action? The acceptance of yourself and the intent to be the best 'you' that you can be, leads to true power...

Which brings me to my point - I think I can sing. Others do not necessarily agree, but I have embraced this power I have to bring a fired-up karaoke crowd to silence. As I have come to realise that this may not be what others perceive to be my most compelling self, I have chosen one song and have spend hours on it... This is part of being the best 'me' I can possible be. And I have to tell you, I am good! I anxiously await our next team building as I practice standing in my own power...authentically belting out "Rule the World..."