At BUILT TO LEAD we challenge ourselves and our clients to look beneath the surface and to read between the lines. We search for truth in unexpected places and find the melody line between seemingly discordant notes. We want to help each other question the status quo and hold common practice to a higher standard.
What do you think about the term “empowerment”? Isn’t it commendable for leaders to “empower” their people? It sounds good—who doesn’t want their associates and colleagues to own their abilities and passions to make a difference? One of the biggest factors in workplace satisfaction is the freedom to make decisions about how one’s work is accomplished. We certainly want our associates to have that kind of power. But what happens when we look beneath the surface of what empowerment really means?
When you empower someone, you actually decrease his or her power. My laptop computer is dependent upon an outside power source to keep charged. If by “empowerment” we mean that our associates are dependent upon the leader giving them direction or permission to fulfill their tasks, then the leader is creating dependency rather than true power.
Where is the closest CEO to you right now? The amazing truth is that you are the CEO of a cool little company called YOU. We will all be much more fulfilled in work and life as we assume the responsibility for leading ourselves. Don’t wait around for permission! Don’t waste time looking for someone else to empower you. BUILT TO LEAD leaders look for people who own their responsibility to take their YOU company to the top. What might you see differently if you assumed your proper title? You are the CEO of a cool little company called YOU.
BUILT TO LEAD 
Great stuff!