Side-stepping power

Most misuse of power is seen as its overuse: dominating discussions, micromanaging others, coercing or threatening to get your way. But the underuse of power—timidity, hesitation, fear of making the wrong decision—is just as costly. Holding power means having a responsibility to use it. And side-stepping your power, ceding your authority to be seen as nice, or to avoid making a wrong move, can have negative, even dangerous consequences.

Consider This

During the American Civil War, General George McClellan commanded the Army of the Potomac. Despite its numerical superiority over Confederate forces, he repeatedly hesitated to engage the enemy. He overestimated the enemy’s strength, delayed campaigns, and deferred decisions to avoid risk or criticism.

The consequences were severe: opportunities to end battles quickly were lost, campaigns dragged on for months, and countless lives were lost due to his inaction. His caution, and desire to avoid mistakes ultimately prolonged the war and increased the human cost. 

Putting It Into Play

Using the power vested in us isn’t optional; it’s our responsibility. Failing to act decisively, even with the best of intentions, can lead to undesirable effects:

• Letting a dysfunctional team dynamic continue because “it’ll work itself out.”
  
• Staying silent in meetings when you disagree with a direction you know is flawed.
  
• Accepting poor performance rather than giving honest feedback.
• Avoiding setting limits with people who take too much of your time or energy.
  

Using power well means using it, even if it’s risky, even if we don’t have all the answers, even if others may object. Holding power doesn’t require being perfect or having all the answers. It does require, though, having the courage and willingness to act when the situation demands.