Anyone stretching themselves in work and life is going to come up against challenges involving other people. Given so many see such moments as a zero-sum power game, a feeling of powerlessness often results.

“How can I reclaim my sense of personal power?” is a question my clients and I frequently work on. If this is a struggle you’re currently facing (or can imagine having to face in the near-future) I suggest it’s helpful to ask: “Where is my sense of power coming from?”

Take a moment to consider your sources of personal power. From your title, position or bestowed authority? Knowledge, skills and expertise? Experience and longevity? Power by association or from achievements? Do this private enquiry for yourself and everyone else in the room.

Create your list of power sources. Notice what you notice:

🔹 Which am I overattributing in others?
🔹 Which am I discounting in myself?
🔹 How are these thoughts affecting my sense of power?

As to the last question, notice that our sense of personal power is only ever sourced from our thoughts, feelings, narratives and beliefs about power.

We might temporarily believe in, and work on, those external sources. And that’s well-enough. But never confuse them with our root sources of power.

Reclaiming personal power is a question of upgrading the belief systems and level of being that has (temporarily) disconnected us from our innate source of power. That’s what’s missing. That’s what needs attention.

If this is your challenge right now, I hope this share has given you a new line of enquiry. And if you’d like some support exploring your personal power, get in touch here.