Deborah Gruenfeld: You Are Far More Powerful Than You Believe
Mar 20, 2020
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Deborah Gruenfeld, a leadership professor at Stanford and author, dives into the dynamics of power in human interactions. She shares how using power to uplift others leads to better outcomes, contrasting it with self-serving behaviors. Their chat also touches on navigating imposter syndrome, maintaining authenticity, and ethical leadership practices. Gruenfeld emphasizes the transformative potential of self-acceptance and the importance of trust in teams, advocating for a communal approach to leadership.
True power is most effective when used altruistically, emphasizing the importance of serving others rather than pursuing personal gain.
Many high-achievers experience imposter syndrome, highlighting the disconnect between self-perception and external validation in professional success.
Adapting to leadership requires recognizing and reassessing one's behavior to align with new roles and responsibilities for effective authority.
Deep dives
Redefining Power Dynamics
True power extends beyond traditional notions associated with authority, loudness, or dominance. It is often quietly wielded in making informed choices and understanding the various roles individuals play in their lives. Deborah Grunfeld posits that power is most effective when it is used for the benefit of others rather than for personal gain. This perspective reframes how power dynamics function within organizations, emphasizing the importance of humility and altruism in leadership.
The Imposter Syndrome Experience
Deborah Grunfeld reveals her own struggles with imposter syndrome, even after significant achievements like obtaining tenure at Stanford. Many high-achieving individuals grapple with not feeling 'enough,' which stems from long-held inner beliefs rather than external validation. This disconnect between self-perception and societal roles creates a gap where individuals feel unworthy of their achievements. Recognizing this commonality can help leaders address their insecurities and channel their frustrations into constructive actions.
Navigating Social Roles
Adapting to new roles often comes with challenges, particularly for those promoted from subordinate positions to leadership roles. It is essential for individuals in new positions to recognize that their responsibilities and expectations differ significantly from previous roles. Leaders may struggle if they do not reassess their behavior in line with their new status, as what may have worked previously often does not suffice in a higher position. Acknowledging these shifts is crucial for establishing authority and maintaining effective leadership.
The Power of Acting
Deborah emphasizes the value of 'acting' in understanding power dynamics, as this allows individuals to embrace different facets of their personality suited for various contexts. Theater training can help leaders tap into dormant aspects of themselves, enhancing their ability to engage with others authentically and powerfully. This approach allows leaders to fulfill their roles with confidence and purpose, overcoming apprehensions in asserting authority. The focus shifts from inauthenticity to finding genuine expressions of self that resonate with their leadership responsibilities.
Using Power Responsibly
Research indicates that power alone does not dictate behavior; rather, it is the intentions behind its use that matter significantly. When leaders prioritize the collective good over personal gain, they are more likely to foster a culture of trust and collaboration. Effective leaders understand that their power must be continuously utilized for other's benefit to maintain legitimacy and respect from their teams. Consequently, embracing the responsibilities associated with power leads to more sustainable success for both leaders and their organizations.
But according to long-time Stanford Business School leadership professor, Deborah Gruenfeld, while power makes human beings act on their best and worst instincts, research shows people are consistently rewarded when they use their power in the service of others. In her new book, “Acting With Power: Why We Are More Powerful Than We Believe,” Gruenfeld […]