In a world that often equates strength with physical might, the concept of personal power can be misunderstood. Personal power isn’t about dominating others; rather, it’s an internal strength—rooted in self-awareness, discipline, and mental resilience—that allows us to navigate challenges with calm and purpose.
If you prefer video, I covered this topic here in “What Is Personal Power and How Do I Claim It”
What Is Personal Power?
Personal power is often mistaken for ego or pride, but it’s much more subtle. A classic story illustrates this beautifully.
There was once an Irishman who claimed to have conquered his pride. This was a big deal because pride has been known to be the death of many.
He shared the good news with his family and his wife looked at him in surprise. Well dear, she inquired… where have you put it? It’s a load to bear and we had split the weight of it amongst the family. We will surely be lost without more of it.
So the man went to look for his pride because he couldn’t quite remember where he had left it. He looked in the fields, in the mountains and by the streams and he couldn’t find it anywhere.
He went home, feeling dejected to tell his wife. She looked at him in shock and asked “Did you check behind you?” Pride is like a shadow and had never left him.
This anecdote is a reminder that our personal power is always with us, even when we aren’t fully aware of it.
Personal power is the ability to remain composed under pressure, make clear-headed decisions, and keep moving forward, regardless of circumstances. It’s not just an enviable trait; it’s the key to becoming a more effective and influential person. Nothing commands respect like the strength to stay calm, poised, and solution-oriented in difficult moments.
Developing Your Personal Power
While everyone possesses personal power, few know how to access and strengthen it. Here are some actionable steps to help you cultivate and claim your personal power:
1. Increase Self-Awareness
Personal power begins with understanding yourself. By identifying your triggers and reactions, you can approach situations with greater objectivity. Embrace what irritates you as opportunities for growth. Shifting your perspective this way can unlock hidden strengths and equip you to handle adversity with grace.
2. Cultivate Self-Discipline
Self-discipline is essential for harnessing personal power. This is about consistently choosing responses over reactions, focusing on solutions instead of dwelling on setbacks. When you are disciplined in managing your thoughts, you gain the power to guide your emotions rather than being controlled by them.
3. Stay Present and Engaged
One of the hallmarks of personal power is the ability to remain present. Staying grounded in the here and now, rather than dwelling on past frustrations, allows you to face challenges with clarity and intention. Redirect your energy towards collaborative problem-solving, focusing on actions that move you forward.
Claiming your personal power may require patience and a commitment to personal growth, but it’s an achievable path for everyone.
It starts with awareness, builds with self-discipline, and becomes a way of life through consistent practice. By tapping into your personal power, you not only strengthen yourself but also become a positive influence on those around you. Remember, the true essence of personal power is in embodying calm resilience.
