Power isn’t always lost in dramatic moments.
More often, it’s leaked—slowly, subtly—through unconscious habits.
The way you speak.
The way you show up.
The way you seek reassurance, approval, or permission.
None of it feels like a big deal in the moment.
But over time?
These micro-errors compound—until your influence starts to fade.
Let’s call them what they are:
Power errors.
And it’s time to stop making them.
Power Error #1: Waiting for Permission
You don’t need permission to speak, to lead, to contribute.
If you’re constantly looking for a gap to slide in politely, you’ll always be behind the curve.
People notice when you hesitate.
They sense when you’re unsure if you belong.
And they treat you accordingly.
Own your space. Calmly. Clearly. Without apology.
Power Error #2: Needing Reassurance
Everyone doubts themselves from time to time.
But if you’re always asking, “Was that okay?” or “Did I handle that right?”—you’re signalling uncertainty.
And in leadership or influence?
Uncertainty is expensive.
When others see you second-guessing, they start second-guessing you.
Power Error #3: Downplaying Achievements
It might feel like humility.
But constantly brushing off your wins with “It was nothing” or “I just got lucky” erodes your own credibility.
If you don’t take your contribution seriously, why would anyone else?
You can be gracious without being invisible.
Power Error #4: Avoiding Confrontation
Being “nice” isn’t always kind.
Sometimes it’s just self-erasure.
Letting things slide, smiling through disrespect, or swallowing your views to keep the peace doesn’t make you a team player.
It makes you forgettable.
Influence requires boundaries.
Power Error #5: Craving Approval
The moment you need to be liked, you’ve lost control of your power.
You’ll soften when you should stand firm.
You’ll twist yourself into something agreeable—and forgettable.
Being likeable is fine.
But needing to be liked?
That’s a liability.
So… What’s the Fix?
You don’t need to dominate to be powerful.
You don’t need to perform.
You just need to stop giving your power away.
Start small:
- Speak when you have value—don’t wait.
- Own your wins without deflection.
- Say what needs to be said—with calm clarity.
- Trust your voice—before others do.
Power isn’t about volume.
It’s about presence.
And presence is built through small, conscious decisions repeated daily.
The Gautrey Influence Blog
Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now..
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