Leading with Strength, Sharing with Generosity

The Power Paradox: Leading with Strength, Sharing with Generosity

Medicine is a lifesaver. It kills pain, wipes out infections, and fights diseases like cancer. But in the wrong dose or over too long a period, medicine can also harm the very people it's meant to help. Doctors, therefore, must carefully determine the right dosage for each patient to maximize benefits while minimizing harm.

Leadership power operates much the same way. When used wisely, it creates opportunities, fosters innovation, and drives growth. But too much power for too long can cause significant damage, both to individuals and organizations. History shows us this pattern repeatedly, even in business.

Take business leaders, for example. They start by creating jobs, streamlining supply chains, and introducing groundbreaking products and services. Yet, as their influence grows, so does the risk of overreach. Leaders who once drove innovation can become entangled in self-interest, particularly when wielding power through lobbying efforts. While lobbying can promote beneficial change, it often prioritizes the few at the expense of the many.

So, if unchecked power leads to problems in politics and medicine, should we expect business to be any different? The very traits that fuel a leader's success—ambition, control, influence—can turn problematic when left unchecked. The incentive to grow and scale a business is natural, but too much control can ultimately backfire, leading to stagnation, misuse of resources, or a loss of trust.

However, there is a solution: generosity. Many successful entrepreneurs eventually give away their fortunes or step back from power to allow others to thrive. The question is, why wait? The joy of generosity doesn’t have to be postponed until the end of a career. Giving back—whether through sharing wealth, opportunities, or decision-making power—can lead to greater happiness and lasting impact.

Great Leaders Know When to Step Back - be generous, share the power, build strong teams, and watch your business thrive.

At BizCoach TN, we believe that leadership doesn’t have to be a zero-sum game. Our team-building workshops help leaders strike that balance between using power effectively and knowing when to step back.

Contact us at BizCoachTN for help in transforming your life and business.