Start Here for the Understand Power and Build Confidence Series

The following blog posts are based on the May 2023 session on power and confidence.

Each post contains a graphic and reflections on the topic. Some of the posts build on content from previous posts. It is recommended that you read at least the first three in order. I recommend following this path (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 - the ones without links will be added soon).

Below is an overview of all of the content.

Key Takeaways

• Getting things done is not enough

• Examine the words you use to improve how you think and act with power

• Match your role to the situation

Tips

• Think of yourself as powerful, competent, and deserving - if you don’t, others will not see you that way

• Recognize the rules of the game. Decide if you want to play the game differently

• Recognize the world is not fair. You do not have to conform to expectations based on your social class, gender, education, race, etc.

• Confidence is seen as competence, do not prioritize being liked

• People may think less of you if you show certain types of vulnerability in certain settings

• Understand how your business makes money and your role 

• Ask for what you want 

• Build relationships and grow your network 

• Flatter higher-ups

• Know when to be controlling and when to be deferential

• Imagine wearing a crown or headdress and see how your body reacts

• The self is influenced by your biology, personal experience, and social reality

• We all play different roles in different situations, meet the needs of the situation