Have you ever wondered why people who you thought would not make it big — whether personal or professional — made it bigger and better? Well, they must have mastered the art of psychological power.
Power, according to American author Robert Greene, is the measure of the degree of control you have over circumstances in your life and the actions of people around you. It is not manipulation, it is something that you have, like a gift — which others don’t. What makes you stand out and gain people’s trust and respect from the rest? Let’s break it down.
You take calculated risks. You take the road less travelled while others tread the normal route. You take different strategies and approaches to things and life not done before that translate to sales or success. You are unique in your own way that people listen to and gravitate towards you. You command attention, time, fondness without even trying. “How do you do that?” is a question often asked of you.
Confident. Even in the midst of mounting challenges, you just don’t give up. It’s not in your DNA because your confidence is greater than any challenge. You have high regard for yourself that people respect you for it. You celebrate even small successes because you take them as victory for self-worth. And the good thing is, you share — whether time, knowledge, money. You inspire people with your confidence that they want to emulate you.
Humble. People are not always interested in what you do or have achieved. But you
make them feel at ease and smart with you. You let them talk about their achievements, wins, and victories — and agree to things they say that you feel should be praised. You congratulate them or give them a pat on the back, showing them you are genuinely happy for what they have become and accomplished in life. They appreciate you in return because you boost their confidence and they feel your appreciation and concern.
Walk the talk. You keep what you promise or say. You also mean what you do. You talk sense, putting words into action. People believe in you and respect you because you practice what you preach. You are serious with conviction for what you believe in. You don’t commit for something you are not sure to deliver, but you do your best. And people see that.
Supportive. You give your all-out support to your bosses, colleagues, friends, and family, especially if it is something for the common good. People know that you can be relied on, always ready with a helping hand. If a friend or family member is facing challenges in life, you offer not only assistance but also resources. When you know that an officemate is ripe for job promotion, you go the extra mile of helping him raise to a higher position. And you expect nothing in return.
Committed. You are dedicated to your job, family, causes dear to you, or to any activity. You are loyal and value relationship with family, friends, and significant other. People with this kind of commitment are also wholeheartedly committed to themselves. This has a ripple effect on people.
Focused. You know your strength and focus on it rather than on your weaknesses. You know where you’re good at and develop it instead of playing to be ‘Jack of all trades but master of none.’ People who are focused know the power of direction, dedication, and purpose; key elements to success.
Slow to anger. You think before you act. And if you do, you are objective in your ways. You know very well that if you react furiously to something, whether trivial or significant, it will only lead to argument, losing your power over the people around you. So, you avoid disagreements, being provoked at or defensive. Instead, you show genuine interest, compassion, concern, and good behavior. People are drawn to you.
Do it right. No ifs or buts. You don’t compromise your decisions based on your own personal preferences or needs, but for the greater good of everyone. You don’t enforce personal beliefs or experiences just so to prove your point. You treat people fairly, which shows that you do what is ethical and just to stand for what you believe in.
These qualities are not really art. What you are is innate, inherent in you. You choose to be kind, considerate, compassionate, appreciative, understanding, forgiving in a consistent manner and action — whether in good days or in bad. That’s power!
