Throughout history you see countless examples of power corrupting and influencing the decisions and actions of people.

Why is the pursuit of power and control such a powerful motivator? Beneath the need to exert power over others is an underlying cause:

The need of the ego to not have its view of reality questioned or challenged.

In a situation where absolute power over a given population is achieved, by a ruler, you always see the same scenario. Control over what people think, say and do. The ruler does not want to discuss why he or she chooses to do something. Those who are being ruled are expected not to question those who wield the power.

Ego is that ruler.

The very reason for its existence is to preside over and represent your current world view to the outer world. Because of this, it will not tolerate questions which cause conflict within its rationale. Have you ever tried to reason with someone who’s only reaction is “because I said so”?

The ego wants to extend its control, without being questioned or challenged. This is a normal function of the ego. The problem is when the ego reinforced with power is no longer accountable to anything but itself.

Right or wrong, the ego will not give up any power it has aquirred to assert its view or reality over others. This is a fact of life which when understood can help you avoid unecessary confrontations with egos in power positions. The first thing is to learn how to recognize a power seeking ego:

Its usually a person who displays examples of their “conquests”.

I’ll never forget walking into a potential Client’s office one day and seeing virtually every game animal imaginable stuffed and mounted! My first reaction was to feel sick at the sight. His sick ego was on exhibition…

I moved on!

-Bob Baran