As you develop as a leader, how you respond to having power can make or break your success. Here are five common power traps that can undermine your credibility and effectiveness—and how to avoid them.
 
The Savior Trap. Don’t try to solve everyone’s problems, for example by micromanaging projects or by offering unnecessary suggestions. Instead, ask questions before giving answers, and actively listen to your team. This helps them develop independence and better problem-solving skills.
 
The Complacency Trap. It’s one thing to be viewed as an authority. But when you assume you know everything, you risk missing important information and opportunities. Stay curious and ask deeper questions—and recommit to being present and attentive in meetings.
 
The Avoidance Trap. Being in a position of power requires you to delegate some work to others. But don’t avoid challenges, unpleasant tasks, or difficult conversations just because you can; reframe them as growth opportunities, and face them head-on.
 
The Friend Trap. If you’re uncomfortable wielding power, you might default to treating everyone as a peer. Instead, embrace your authority, set clear boundaries, and establish new relationship dynamics with your team.
 
The Stress Trap. With great power comes great stress. But if you don’t manage it effectively, it will trickle down to your team. Redesign your daily routine to mitigate your stressors, and set boundaries around when and how you communicate with your employees.
This tip is adapted from “5 Traps to Avoid as You Gain Power as a Leader,” by Julie Diamond et al.
Spread the love