The Quest for Authentic Power

Authentic power-the power to consistently obtain what we truly desire-comes from within. Such power, the power to determine your own destiny, isn't achieved by imposing your will on others. In fact, Ross Lawford explains, power based on authority, control, strength, and status is not only ineffective, it is usually short-lived or more illusion than reality.
Drawing on psychology, theology, and business, Lawford outlines a new view of power based on authenticity and provides practical pointers for achieving your deepest desires without manipulation, coercion, or intimidation. He provides strategies for applying this new view of power in every aspect of your life-including your work, your family, and personal relationships.Preface
Introduction: Our Beliefs About Power Are Keeping Us Powerless
When Disillusionment Happens
The Path to Self-Empowerment
Chapter One: Our Concepts Of Power Shape Our Reality
Uncovering Some Of Our Assumptions About Power
How Did We Arrive At These Beliefs About Power?
Your Power May Be Counterfeit
Typical Responses To Feelings Of Powerlessness
To Change Your Outcomes – Change Your Assumptions
Chapter Two: A Conventional View Of Power
Power As Authority
Power As Control
Power As Strength
Power As Status
Summary
Chapter Three: What Is Authentic Power?
Power As Authenticity
Power As Synergy
Power As Inner Strength
Power As “Quality Of Being”
Summary
Chapter Four: The Conventional View Of How Power Is Obtained
Power As A Commodity
Power As A Reward
Summary
Chapter Five: The Keys To Gaining Authentic Power
The Power Of A Strong, Clear Intention
The Authentic Self As The Source Of Power
Summary
Chapter Six: What Limits Our Power?
The Conventional Answer
What Actually Limits Our Experience Of Authentic Power?
Summary
Chapter Seven: What Is The Conventional Way To Exercise Power?
Strategies Based On Control
The “Bulldozer Strategy”
The Strategy Of One-upmanship
Summary
Chapter Eight: Exercising Authentic Power Through Self-Empowerment
Accessing The Full Power Of The Techniques
Turn Off Your “Autopilot” More Often
Harness The Power Of Your Words
Listen For The “Quiet Voice”
An Ounce Of Intention Is Better Than A Pound Of Perspiration
Maximize Possibilities
Give Wisdom A Chance
Summary
Chapter Nine: Creating An Environment For Self-Empowerment
Follow The Lesson Of The Dresser Drawer
Use An “Upside-down” Pyramid
Build On Rock, Not Sand
Build Synergy (“Power With”)
Summary
Chapter Ten: More Power To You: The Transition To Authentic Power
Dismantling The Barriers
Avoiding The Pitfalls
Getting Started
The Choice Is Yours
Bibliography
About the Author G. Ross Lawford brings to his writing his professional experience as a research scientist, university professor, business executive, wellness coach, facilitator, and consultant. Just as importantly, he incorporates into his writing reflections on his roles as son, parent, brother, spouse, friend, and volunteer leader in community organizations such as the Board of the local hospital.