Unleashing True Power: Insights from Power vs. Force
Raéd Alexander Ayyad
#VeritatemDilexi ... "The most serious mistakes are not being made as a result of wrong answers; the true dangerous thing is asking the wrong question." —Peter Drucker
It was during a conversation with a respected acquaintance of mine, Michael, a retired U.S. Naval aviator and law enforcement agent—a seasoned leader and strategist—that I first heard of Power vs. Force by Dr. David R. Hawkins.
He remarked that my perspectives on leadership and influence resonated with the core messages of the book. His recommendation wasn’t casual; it came with the weight of his experience in environments where understanding the difference between power and force could mean the difference between success and failure. He, then, requested that I share my feedback with him, pertaining to how I perceived the content after completing my reading.
Intrigued, I dove into the book and discovered a framework that articulated what I had always felt: that true power doesn’t push—it draws. Power is not the iron hand of control but the quiet, enduring strength of authenticity and integrity.
Hawkins introduces the Map of Consciousness, a scale ranking human emotions from shame (20) to enlightenment (1000). He reveals how higher states of consciousness—like love, peace, and joy—carry an energy that naturally influences and inspires, while lower states—like fear and anger—often lead to forceful and unsustainable outcomes.
In the book, force is portrayed as temporary and fragile, often met with resistance. It is the difference between demanding compliance and earning respect. Power, on the other hand, flows from a deep connection to truth and higher principles. It is the soft power of Gandhi, whose influence outlasted the might of empires.
One of the most profound lessons from Power vs. Force is the idea that power aligns with integrity and truth, creating harmony with the world around us. Hawkins even uses kinesiology (muscle testing) to illustrate how our bodies respond to truth at a subconscious level—evidence that power resonates on more than just a conscious plane.
This perspective on power has shaped not only my personal life but also my professional endeavors. It aligns perfectly with my approach to leadership, consulting, and even my work with Connexxen. Choosing power over force means prioritizing relationships, embracing authenticity, and creating lasting influence through the quiet strength of truth.
In a world often obsessed with forceful tactics, Power vs. Force is a reminder that the most effective influence comes not from pushing harder but from standing firmly in one’s truth.
Expanding on Power vs. Force in Real Life
When I reflect on moments where power outshone force, I think of the subtle yet profound leadership styles I've witnessed. In my consulting and not-for-profit work, for example, I often encounter organizations struggling with internal resistance. Many leaders, unknowingly, default to force—setting rigid rules, enforcing compliance, and pushing for results. While this may yield short-term success, it often comes at the cost of employee morale and long-term sustainability.
Alternatively, power-based leadership fosters a culture of trust and openness. Instead of pushing an agenda, powerful leaders create an environment where teams feel empowered to contribute ideas and collaborate freely. This approach not only enhances creativity but also builds a resilient organizational culture. In my work with Teknikr?n, Connexxen, and my whole career in general, I've seen firsthand how aligning with higher principles—like transparency and respect—transforms interactions, whether in technology consulting or language interpretation.
The Practical Application of Power
Hawkins' insights also influence my approach to conflict resolution. Whether mediating a business negotiation or interpreting in high-stakes situations, I strive to embody power by remaining calm, centered, and truthful. Instead of reacting to force with force, I focus on aligning my responses with integrity. This often diffuses tension and opens the door to genuine understanding.
The concept of power also aligns beautifully with the guiding principles of Connexxen: “Your world is at your fingertips.” This mantra is not just about technology but about empowerment—providing clients with the tools and insights they need to thrive, rather than imposing solutions upon them. This is the quiet, magnetic strength of power that Hawkins describes so well.
Who Should Read Power vs. Force
This book is for anyone seeking to enhance their influence and understanding of human behavior. It resonates particularly with:
The universal principles in Power vs. Force make it a valuable resource for anyone who wants to transform how they lead, influence, and connect with the world.
The Personal Impact of Power vs. Force
On a personal level, the concepts addressed in Power vs. Force have helped me reframe challenges and opportunities. The book reminds me that true influence doesn’t require validation or control—it simply exists. When I approach situations from a place of power, I find that solutions come more naturally, relationships flourish, and my work feels more purposeful.
In closing, Power vs. Force is more than a book—it is a philosophy that, when embraced, can transform not only how we lead but also how we live. It is a call to move beyond the struggle for dominance and to embody a strength that comes from alignment with truth and higher consciousness. This is the path to lasting influence and a legacy of real, meaningful impact.
An Invitation to Reflect and Share
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you experienced moments where choosing power over force made a difference? What lessons have you learned from your own journey of influence and leadership? Join the conversation and share your insights—I believe we can all learn from each other's experiences, and together, elevate our approach to living and leading with true power.