Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely

"Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely". These words traces back to a letter written by Lord Acton to a bishop sometime during 1800s. The statement is so bold and loud I think almost everyone in their lifetime must have come across this scenario. Most often when we think of power, we reside our minds into political leaders. But I think power struggle happens even in our day to day lives. These can be between family members, friends and other social relationship that we maintain during our life time.

Most often we tend to embrace or formulate ideas, concepts, views from people whom we associate with. These can be parents, siblings, uncles and aunts, to friends, colleagues and other peers. Sometimes people will idolise one of these stronger characters in their life and will follow their ideas or point of view.

It is at this stage you can succumb to the power corruption theory. Now that you are a follower, they will have a stronger say in your life. At a certain stage the person would enforce absolute power on every decision. After a certain duration the subordinate victim will realise that they are being subdued in this power equation. So a power struggle will ensue. At times these can be very painful to each of the parties involved.

Again there are two types of power hoarders, one that knowingly takes control of people around them and others those unknowingly controls the victim. The unknowing ones are the most dangerous, since they are psychologically wired to control their surroundings.

The first step to come out of such a situation is to first identify that power struggle is eroding your presence. Then work out a viable plan so that all issues are resolved amicably.