Service, Not Demonstration !

Power, at its core, is not mere possession; it is a vital potential. It stands as one of the key psychological needs embedded in human nature: the instinct to acquire, retain, and demonstrate control. When used wisely, it fuels change, enables progress, and gives momentum to noble intentions. Without power, even the most compassionate ideas may remain dormant. It is essential for implementing welfare programs, solving societal problems, and reshaping communities for the better.

Yet, power is never solitary. It is acquired through engagement, through politics that influence people.  And at the heart of that influence lies authentic leadership. I’ve come to express this interconnection through a guiding quote:

‘To implement any welfare program or bring change in a social or political organisation, power is required. Power is acquired by doing politics. Politics is done by influencing people. People are influenced by leaders who understand their psychology and promise the fulfillment of their needs.’

This insight grew out of a rich journey spanning decades of reflection, education, and experience. Over twenty years ago, I had the privilege of coordinating a statewide training program on ‘Institutional Management’ for engineering educators in Maharashtra. Among its sessions, one of mine; 'Power, Politics, and Influence’, proved unforgettable. Drawing from my family background, and having passion for leadership, I delivered this session with thoughtfulness, real-life anecdotes, and just the right touch of humour. Even today, many participants recall it with fondness. And for me, it remains a milestone!

This foundation helped me further articulate leadership as a moral and practical force. I often say:

‘A leader is a person who shoulders responsibility, who is sensitive to the environment, and puts earnest efforts to solve problems.’

Leadership, in this sense, is a form of service. But through this journey, one cautionary truth has always stood clear: Power demands demonstration. Many who possess power feel compelled to assert it—sometimes coercively—to prove their strength. In doing so, they may invite their own undoing. Power, when stripped of purpose, becomes perilous. Power, when wielded without wisdom, can corrode the soul of leadership.

Yet human nature holds another deeper need; ‘Self-Actualisation.’  This is the pursuit of inner fulfilment.  When this need is genuinely met, it tends to quieten the craving for power and its outward display. Even when entrusted with great authority, such individuals choose service over dominance. They use power not to impress, but to uplift.

In recent years, as my reflections evolved into blogs and a book I authored; I embraced creativity in newer forms; transforming quotes and thoughts into short social media reels. With visuals, music, and emotional storytelling, these reached younger audiences and sparked fresh engagement. The process itself was exhilarating; teaching me new tools, inviting new voices, and awakening the spirit of innovation I always sought to nurture in my students.

Throughout my journey as an educator, I have always encouraged learners to be imaginative, expressive, and rooted in purpose. Today, I live that philosophy anew; infusing wisdom with creativity, and creativity with compassion.

Because in the end, power is not for display. It is for direction. And leadership, at its best, is a luminous act of service !