Power vs. Force
How to re-orient yourself when you feel stuck
Every moment of the day, we’re either moving through life using Force or Power. When I’m feeling stuck and life seems to stop working, it’s often because I’m focused on using Force instead aligning with Power.
Force
Force is like the man who sets off to explore the oceans in a motorboat. Even if it’s a yacht with the most sophisticated technology, the man’s adventures are limited by how much fuel he has in the tanks.
Force requires the continual burning of resources to produce energy and overcome resistance. This means it is at odds with Nature and must overcome the elements to make any forward progress.
At its essence, Force is effortful, limited, and self-reliant. It is the primary way in which we’re taught to move through life. If you want to go fast, Force might do. However, don’t expect to go far without several fuel stops.
Power
Power, on the other hand, is like the woman who explores those same oceans, but in a sailboat. Her range is potentially limitless, because she can harness the infinite resource of the wind.
While she cannot make the wind blow, she can be ready when it does. Rather than needing to overcome resistance, she welcomes it and gathers it skillfully in her sails. Power is working with the flow of life.
As its essence, Power is about flow, cooperation, and (of course) trust. Some might even say faith because you must rely on the wind and currents. If you want to go far (and sometimes fast), go with Power.
What a refreshing perspective. Honestly, I can't say that I've given much thought to the distinction between power and force, but stumbling upon this article has made me think twice. You provide a simple way to reorient oneself in the face of everyday obstacles. Very introspective!
When we're able to name things, we understand them better—and this article is a clear example of that. I really like how your post brings clarity to things that may seem complex on the surface but are, in fact, essentials. Thank you!