7 Rules of Power

1) Power is a tool that can be mastered through strategic behaviors 2) Get out of your own way by overcoming self-limiting beliefs 3) Break rules strategically to stand out and gain advantages

"Power is a tool. Like many or maybe most tools, power, once mastered, can be used to accomplish great things, horrendously terrible things, and everything in between." Power is learnable. Contrary to popular belief, power is not an innate trait but a set of skills and behaviors that can be developed. Research shows that political skill is one of the strongest predictors of career success, associated with higher compensation, more promotions, and greater job satisfaction. Power is necessary for change. To effect meaningful change in organizations and society, individuals need to acquire and wield power effectively. Without power, even the best ideas and intentions may fail to materialize. Power requires strategy. Acquiring and maintaining power involves: Understanding organizational dynamics Building influential relationships Projecting confidence and competence Making strategic decisions about when to conform and when to stand out

"If you do not think of yourself as powerful, competent, and deserving, it is likely that, in subtle and possibly not-so-subtle ways, you will communicate this self-assessment to others." Recognize self-imposed limitations. Many people, especially those from underrepresented groups, suffer from imposter syndrome or internalized beliefs about their lack of deservingness. These self-limiting beliefs can become self-fulfilling prophecies. Reframe your self-narrative. To overcome these limitations: Focus on your strengths and accomplishments Use empowering language when describing yourself Challenge negative self-talk with evidence of your capabilities Seek feedback from trusted mentors to gain a more balanced perspective Take calculated risks. Stepping outside your comfort zone and taking on challenges that stretch your abilities can help build confidence and demonstrate your potential to others.

"Different people are willing to do different things in order to succeed. Just because you won't network, or flatter, or self-promote, certainly does not mean that all of your competitors will be as circumspect." Understand the power of norm violation. Breaking rules or social norms can signal power and create perceptions of status. Research shows that those who violate norms are often seen as more powerful and influential. Be strategic in rule-breaking. Not all rules should be broken. Consider: Which rules are arbitrary or outdated Where bending rules can create significant advantages How to mitigate potential negative consequences Examples of strategic rule-breaking: Asking for things beyond your current status Taking initiative without explicit permission Challenging conventional wisdom in your field Creating opportunities rather than waiting for them