Power Play: Understand the difference between control and influence

Power Players understand the difference between control and influence. You can gently nudge a person in a certain direction, but only a fool thinks he can control them.

We all know what it feels like when someone tries to push you around. Or is controlling or an outright bully. Control and influence are finely nuanced states of mind and they could not be more different.

Each of us is only 50% of the relationship we have with another person, but we are entirely responsible for how we behave in that relationship. The bottom line is simple – influence carries a great deal more power than control.

It’s never a compliment to be called controlling. But we’d all like to think we are influential.

Think long and hard about these two words and watch those around you who have the power. The great ones have influence and are viewed with respect. The terrible ones try to bully and control.