The third lesson in managing power is to practise empowerment. As a leader gets more and more power, she should empower those below more and more. The organization then becomes more dynamic and powerful as a whole – instead of being centred on a single individual centre of power.

The fourth lesson in managing power is balance. If you see some of the Indian deities, they carry all sorts of weapons – axes, sickles, bows and arrows, swords and shields, knives, spears and so on. Weapons are an expression of their power. At the same time, this is balanced with the abhaya-varada expression – offering protection and benediction. Business leaders should practise using power as a tool for action, balancing it with the other tools in their kitty. The specific tool to be used should be a conscious choice, depending on the situation and the people involved. The tool should be used for results and not for individual aggrandizement.

There are many more ways in which leaders can practise the art of managing power. At FABRIC, we use a combination of ancient lessons and modern practice to help leaders evolve into the greatest expression of their individual potential and maximize their impact on their organizations.

Read more:

6 ways to build your family’s human capital 

What Influences Culture in Family Businesses?

Keywords: Power, megalomaniac, success, balance, humility, empowerment, abhaya-varada, weapon, expression, tool, choice