How to Use Power Effectively

02/19/2003

"In large rivers one finds big fish but one may also be drowned." –Spanish proverb

HOW TO USE POWER EFFECTIVELY

Robert Greene, writing in Bottom Line/Personal (February 16; www.bottomlinesecrets.com) in "How to Get What You Want in Life: Lessons from History's Experts," has studied the lives of achievers throughout history -- from Queen Elizbeth I to Henry Kissinger -- and derived some action strategies based on their performance. Here are a few of them...

* Say less than necessary. The less you say, the more profound, mysterious -- and powerful -- you appear. Short answers and silences put others on the defensive, forcing them to jump in and fill the silence, thereby revealing information about themselves -- and their weaknesses. The more you say, the more likely you'll say something foolish.

* Disarm and infuriate with the mirror effect. Acting like someone else -- whether it is a boss, peer or opponent -- is what I call the mirror effect. Like a chameleon, assume the colors of your environment so no one can touch you. Mirroring others will give them the feeling that you share their thoughts and goals. Everyone is consumed by his own ego. Try to impose your own ego and you meet resistance. But holding up a mirror makes others see what they want to see. Feed the fantasies of others by finding out what they like and making those tastes your own. Put books by some of your boss's favorite writers on your bookshelf. Don't lecture people about their failings -- they won't listen. If you mirror their behavior, they will either ignore you or think about their own actions.

* Never appear perfect. Looking better than others is dangerous. People will become envious and look for ways to trip you up. When others envy you, they will work against you. Weed out envy before it takes root. Appear unambitious to your colleagues. Make power seem like at least something of a burden and sacrifice -- something imposed upon you. The appearance of self-sacrifice turns envy to pity. People will feel bad for imposing on you instead of resenting you for what you have.

For insights on power in the early childhood world, check out the Beginnings Workshop, "Power Struggles." Click on this address: https://secure.ccie.com/catalog/cciecatalog.php?cPath=23

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.