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Inner Strength

11/11/2024

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5 Tips to Unlock Your Personal Power for Life and Career Success

Hi, I’m Gregg Swanson. Throughout my life, from climbing rock faces to building a massive sales territory, I’ve learned how crucial it is to keep pushing forward, even in the face of adversity. After surviving an avalanche and spending 20+ years coaching others, I believe that true personal power is built through both mental and physical resilience. I’m excited to help you find your own.

Let’s do this!

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Introduction to Personal Power

You know, when I first started thinking about “personal power,” I used to feel a bit skeptical. I imagined it meant something reserved for those in charge—like managers, politicians, or big-shot CEOs.

But let’s be real: personal power isn’t just for the rich and famous; it’s something we all can cultivate. It’s about developing the influence that comes from a strong sense of self, setting clear goals, and having the resilience to stay true to our path, no matter what obstacles arise.

Building personal power takes time, self-awareness, and the ability to navigate challenges with confidence. But when we learn to harness it, everything changes. We start making decisions that align with our values, and we feel more in control.

Life becomes less about going through the motions and more about creating the experiences we truly want. So let’s dive in together, and I’ll share some practical insights on building personal power, based on lessons learned (sometimes the hard way) and ways you can start shifting things for yourself today.

Why Personal Power Matters

Personal power matters more than we might realize. When we talk about power, people often imagine control over others, but in reality, it starts with self-control and a deep understanding of who you are.

Personal power means making choices that resonate with our core values and help us live life on our terms. The funny thing is, the more in control you feel internally, the more control you seem to have over external situations too.

And here’s a fact that might surprise you: people with a strong sense of personal power actually tend to live longer, healthier lives. Those who lack power and feel helpless often experience more stress, which takes a toll on both physical and mental health.

But when you’re in charge of your decisions and feel empowered, life’s challenges feel a little less daunting. You approach them with a sense of purpose rather than dread. You’re not just floating along, hoping things will turn out okay—you’re steering the ship.

Building personal power means taking responsibility for our lives and recognizing that, yes, there are external factors beyond our control, but how we respond to them? That’s all ours. When we start from that place, we’re not only stronger but also happier.

Breaking Through Obstacles

Now, let’s talk about the obstacles that get in the way of personal power. Honestly, I used to think I had to wait for the perfect opportunity to come along—waiting until I “knew the right people” or “had the right experience.” But the biggest lesson I learned? The most powerful limitations are the ones we place on ourselves.

The first major obstacle is often our own beliefs. Many of us believe we’ll gain power by just working hard, following the rules, and hoping to be recognized. But the world doesn’t always work that way.

You have to recognize that not everyone around you plays by the same set of rules. This isn’t to say you should go out and act unethically, but understanding that not everyone thinks like you can prevent a lot of disappointment.

Another major roadblock is our fear of failure. I used to shy away from challenges because, deep down, I wanted to avoid feeling incompetent. But personal power doesn’t come from perfection; it comes from persistence.

The willingness to take a leap, stumble, and get back up again—that’s where real power lies. Overcoming obstacles often requires reframing failure as part of growth. Think about it: every time we push past a barrier, we become a bit stronger and a bit more resilient.

Key Traits of Personal Power

Let’s break down some characteristics that help cultivate personal power. We all have certain traits we can nurture to become more influential and resilient. Here are a few I’ve found especially powerful:

  • Tolerance for Discomfort: This one took me a while. There are times when staying silent or doing the bare minimum feels easier, but if you want to grow your personal power, you have to get comfortable with discomfort. Stand your ground, speak your mind, and don’t avoid challenging situations.

 

  • Confidence: Confidence isn’t about arrogance; it’s about trusting yourself. Those who know and trust their abilities are more likely to take risks, ask for what they want, and inspire others along the way. And confidence breeds more confidence—it’s like a muscle you strengthen every time you use it.

 

  • Focus and Specialization: Becoming an expert in one area can be a huge source of power. It gives you credibility and authority, and people start coming to you because they know you know your stuff.

 

  • Empathy and Insight: Knowing how to read people is invaluable. When you understand what motivates others, you can inspire them to work with you, not against you. This doesn’t mean manipulating people; it means connecting with them in a way that fosters genuine trust.

Each of these traits helps form a foundation for personal power, making you more equipped to handle any challenges that come your way.

Tips for Building Personal Power

Building Personal Power

Now, let’s dive into some practical tips for cultivating personal power. These are strategies you can start today, and with time, they’ll become part of your everyday life.

1 – Look for Unique Opportunities: Instead of waiting for the right time, make it happen. One of the best ways to grow your influence is by stepping into roles no one else is willing to fill. For example, if your team needs someone to present a project to leadership, volunteer. It might be nerve-wracking, but it sets you apart.

2 – Build Key Relationships: Building a network of supportive, influential people is essential. I can’t tell you how many times my personal power grew simply by connecting with the right people. It’s not about using others; it’s about creating a circle of mutual support.

3 – Embrace the Uncomfortable: Personal power often grows in moments of discomfort. Whether it’s speaking up in a meeting or taking on a new project, learn to embrace the “growing pains.” It’s like working out a muscle—the more you flex it, the stronger it gets.

4 – Show, Don’t Tell: True power doesn’t need to announce itself. Let your actions speak for you. Demonstrating integrity, resilience, and expertise without having to constantly point it out shows others that you’re dependable and grounded in your personal power.

5 – Stand Out: Find ways to differentiate yourself. This could mean developing a unique skill, offering creative solutions, or simply having the courage to be yourself. In a sea of people trying to blend in, those willing to stand out usually have the greatest influence.

Each of these actions reinforces your sense of personal power and helps establish a reputation of someone worth following and listening to.

Offering Value to Others

Having personal power isn’t about having a “me first” mentality. It’s actually quite the opposite. Those with true influence know that power grows when they bring value to others. I’ve seen it countless times—when I’m willing to lend a hand, offer advice, or simply show up for someone, that goodwill comes back around.

Think about what you can offer to friends, colleagues, or even acquaintances. Whether it’s a new connection, some encouragement, or a skill you’re willing to share, these small acts accumulate over time. People remember the value you bring to their lives and are often willing to reciprocate.

And don’t underestimate the power of social networks. I’ve found that attending community events, joining industry groups, and engaging in professional organizations can be incredibly powerful. It’s not only about who you know but also about how you position yourself within those circles. Aim to be the one people turn to for help, advice, or support.

Conveying Power with Actions and Words

Ever notice how some people just exude a sense of authority, even before they say a word? That’s no accident. Personal power is expressed as much in how we act as in what we say.

Simple changes in body language, tone, and even the way we dress can shift the way others perceive us. Standing tall, maintaining eye contact, and taking your time when you speak are subtle ways to assert your personal power without saying a word.

Powerful communication also comes down to storytelling. Being able to share your experiences, make others feel heard, and inspire action is a huge part of influence. I’ve learned that expressing emotions like passion or even frustration can have an impact. People connect to authenticity, so be yourself—flaws and all.

Conclusion

Building personal power isn’t about changing who you are; it’s about becoming more of who you already are. It’s about embracing the parts of you that make you resilient, determined, and capable. And while it may seem like a daunting task, it really comes down to small, consistent actions over time.

So, start where you are. Identify areas where you can begin stepping into your power today. Whether it’s by speaking up in a meeting, setting a boundary, or simply taking on a new challenge, every step counts. Personal power is a journey, not a destination, and the more we nurture it, the more we realize just how much influence we have over our own lives.

You are your biggest supporter.

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