Why Empowering Yourself and Others Feels Tough?
Part II The Science and Strategy of Empowering Yourself and Others
The Hidden Obstacles
There’s a silent tug-of-war that happens within many of us. A battle between wanting to rise, to lead, to empower and the unseen barriers that keep us grounded. Today, I aim to unveil these barriers, not to discourage, but to arm you with awareness. Because understanding the challenge is half the battle won.
I’ve often pondered why, despite our best intentions, empowering ourselves and others can feel like scaling a cliff without a safety rope. Surely, it shouldn’t be this hard?
Decoding the Challenge: The Internal & External Tug
Let’s start with the world around us. We live in societies layered with norms and expectations. Think about the countless times you’ve been told, “This isn’t how things are done here,” or “Maybe you’re aiming too high.” These societal pressures can subtly, yet powerfully, clip our wings.
But it’s not just external. Inside us, a complex web of thoughts, beliefs, and biases shapes our perception. Our own minds, at times, can be our harshest critics.
The Social Factor: How Societal Norms Box Us In
From childhood, many of us are funneled into molds — based on gender, culture, or socio-economic status. How many brilliant minds have been stymied because they didn’t fit the conventional definition of a “leader”? Societal norms can be chains, keeping us from realizing our potential and acknowledging the potential in others.
Cognitive Biases: The Invisible Mental Traps
Our brains are marvelous, intricate organs. However, they’re also susceptible to patterns of thinking that can hinder our growth. Confirmation bias, for example, makes us favor information that aligns with our existing beliefs. So, if we’ve ever doubted our ability to lead or empower, we might subconsciously seek out instances that confirm these doubts, creating a vicious cycle.
Breaking Through: Knowledge as Your Ally
Recognizing these barriers is the first step to shattering them. When we understand the societal pressures and cognitive biases working against us, we’re better equipped to counteract them. It’s about shifting our perspective, challenging assumptions, and daring to think differently.
As we conclude, I want to pose a question: What if the only thing standing between you and empowerment is awareness? Awareness of the invisible hurdles and the determination to overcome them.
Challenge your assumptions. Reflect on the barriers you’ve faced and conquered.
And as you step into the next chapter of leadership, do so with the knowledge that you are equipped, informed, and more than capable.
In my next piece, I’ll dive deep into the transformative power of strengths.
Unlock the Potential Within 🚀. Dive deep into understanding your unique leadership strengths with the VIA Character Strength Survey. 🌟 Delve in now and mold a future shaped by informed, purpose-driven leadership.
👉 Take the VIA Character Strength Survey & Begin Your Evolution 👈