Acting with Power: Why We Are More Powerful Than We Believe by Deborah H. Gruenfeld

When it comes to achieving success, we often underestimate the power we have to reach our goals. In Acting with Power: Why We Are More Powerful Than We Believe, Deborah H. Gruenfeld explores the concept of agency – the capacity to make choices, take action, and influence the world around us – as an essential component for achieving success. Through a combination of research, stories, and practical advice, Gruenfeld makes a powerful case for why we should pursue our agency and believe in our ability to make positive change.

Gruenfeld introduces the concept of agency by revealing the ways in which humans are inclined to defer our power to others. From a young age, we’re taught to follow the rules, to never question authority, and to accept our place in a hierarchal system. But this submissive behavior only serves to reinforce power dynamics, leaving individuals feeling powerless, suppressed, and resentful. Gruenfeld argues that instead of focusing on what you’re told to do or what everyone else is deciding for you, it’s important to be mindful of the power that lies within you and to use that agency to heal and bring about positive change.

Building on the concept of agency, Gruenfeld delves into the idea of ‘power with’, a type of power that enables individuals to come together and work collaboratively to shape their own destiny. Power with is different from other forms of power in that it doesn’t seek to dominate or control others, but instead cherishes autonomy and trust. Gruenfeld suggests that when harnessed correctly, power with can provide people with the means to take control of their future, giving them the strength to fight against injustice and resist oppressive structures.

Having laid the theoretical foundations of power and agency, Gruenfeld outlines tactics that can be used to improve one’s own power and increase their level of agency. She stresses the importance of resilience in times of stress, suggesting that having the ability to tolerate frustration and disappointment without becoming resentful is key for maintaining a sense of personal power. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of learning to recognize and celebrate success; from big achievements to small wins, developing the skill to recognize the ways in which you are powerful can be incredibly empowering.

Gruenfeld also asserts that surrounding ourselves with supportive people who can bolster our self-belief and encourage us to reach our goals is essential for building our power. Having people who are willing to listen to our perspectives, challenge our thinking, and help us navigate life’s complexities can go a long way toward unlocking our potential and expanding our agency.

At its heart, Acting with Power is a reminder that we are all powerful beings and that we should never take our agency for granted. By showing us that power is not a zero-sum game, and that success comes not just from power ‘over’ others but also from power ‘with’ others, Gruenfeld encourages us to push for the world that we want to see and to unleash the potential we all have to shape our future. Through her enlightening and inspiring message, Gruenfeld helps us to understand why we are more powerful than we think.