The Power Paradox in Leadership

As a leader, you've likely experienced the thrill of attaining a position of power.

Perhaps you've united teams, accomplished ambitious goals, and grown your organization. But have you ever stopped to consider how that very power might be affecting you?

Ironically, the qualities that helped you rise to your leadership position - your empathy, social intelligence, and collaborative spirit - may be at risk of eroding now that you're in power.

This phenomenon is known as the "power paradox."

Think back to when you first stepped into your leadership role. You probably relied heavily on your ability to understand and connect with your team members, to cooperate effectively, and to make decisions that benefited everyone. But as time passed, did you notice subtle changes in your behavior or thought processes?

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The good news is that by being aware of this paradox, you can take steps to maintain the positive aspects of your leadership - your ability to inspire others, solve complex problems, and make a meaningful impact.

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In this newsletter, I will delve into the complexity of power and how leaders can mitigate the power paradox to remain effective leaders.

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The Corrosive Effect of Power: From Empathy to Entitlement

Empathy, collaboration, and ethical behaviour are key attributes that enable individuals to rise to positions of influence. Leaders who exhibit these qualities are more likely to inspire trust, loyalty, and respect from their followers.

However, once individuals attain power, their behaviour often changes. Studies, such as the one by Sivanathan, Pillutla, and Murnighan (2008), "Power gained, power lost," have shown that power can reduce empathy and increase self-serving actions.

Have you caught yourself:

Taking credit for your team's work?

Making important decisions without consulting others?

Bending rules because you feel you've "earned the right"?

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If so, you're not alone. Many leaders fall into these traps without realizing it.

It’s important to realize that this will result in a decline in your leader’s effectiveness and the eventual erosion of your power base.

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The Power Paradox Explained— How Absolute Power Can Corrupt

Let's explore the psychological mechanism that might be affecting you as a leader.

1. Decreased Empathy

Have you found it harder to read your team's emotions or understand their perspectives lately? This is a common effect of power.

2. Overconfidence

Are you making more unilateral decisions, convinced of your own expertise? Power often breeds overconfidence in leaders.

3. Moral Licensing

Have you justified bending the rules because of your position? This is moral licensing at work.

4. Isolation

Do you feel like you're not getting honest feedback anymore? Leadership positions can create an "echo chamber" effect.

Mitigating the Power Paradox: Strategies for Effective Leadership

Now that you're aware of these pitfalls, here are some strategies for maintaining your leadership effectiveness.

1. Cultivate Self-Awareness to Increase Empathy

Regularly reflect on your actions and decisions. Ask yourself: "Am I still leading with the same empathy and collaboration that got me here?

2. Foster Empathy to Combat Overconfidence

Make a conscious effort to understand your team members' perspectives. Schedule regular one-on-ones and truly listen to their concerns and ideas.

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3. Encourage Accountability to Prevent Moral Licensing

Create systems where your team feels safe to provide honest feedback. Consider implementing 360-degree reviews or anonymous feedback channels.

4. Embrace Humility to Avoid Isolation

Your power as a leader is contingent on your team's support. Acknowledge your mistakes and show appreciation for your team's contributions.

In Conclusion

As a leader, you have the unique opportunity to shape not just your organization but also the lives of those you lead.

By staying vigilant against the corrupting influences of power, you can ensure that you continue to lead with integrity, empathy, and effectiveness.

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Great leadership isn't about wielding power - it's about empowering others.

By understanding and addressing the power paradox, you can create a sustainable and ethical leadership approach that benefits everyone in your organization!?

Leaders: Are you ready to elevate your leadership?

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About Mireille Bergraaf

Mireille Bergraaf MCC ESIA is an internationally accredited ICF Master Coach (MCC) with over 10+ years of experience in coaching, leadership, and spirituality. She specializes in empowering leaders to cultivate empathy and compassion through coaching skills.

Mireille is the founder of Dutch Leadership Development (DLD), a leadership development company that works at the intersection of spirituality and business and focuses on cultivating coaching cultures within organizations.

Mireille advocates for integrating spirituality in businesses to promote empathy, compassion, kindness, and integrity in teamwork.

She guides companies to cultivate coaching cultures within their organizations. Coaching cultures promote trust, open communication, welcoming challenges for growth, embracing diversity, team engagement, supporting creativity, and thinking beyond individual interests to contribute.