Principle 4 Power

What freedoms and responsibilities come with the power we hold?

Right — To hold and exercise power in our own lives.

Responsibility — To understand the power we hold, respect the power of others, and use power with awareness, integrity and responsibility.

In practice: Power is our capacity to act and affect circumstances. It includes personal, physical and monetary power, as well as the influence of roles, knowledge, relationships and technology. Used responsibly, it can protect boundaries and enable cooperation. We need to recognise both our own agency and other people's freedom, especially where dependency limits their choices. Greater control brings greater responsibility for consequences.

For example, a manager calling an event optional should consider whether employees can decline without losing favour or opportunities.

A question to sit with (optional): Where do I have more freedom or influence than the other person, and what follows from that?