Last week, I sat near a shimmering infinity pool overlooking the ocean in Zanzibar, the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I couldn’t stop thinking about my friend Atul( changed name). He’d just called me, his voice trembling, to share that he’d been promoted to head his company’s regional office. The news came as a storm brewed on the horizon, dark clouds contrasting the fading light, and I could hear the weight in Atul’s tone. “I wanted this, but now every decision is on me,” he said. “No more blaming the market or my old boss—I have to own it.” As the waves crashed below and thunder rumbled in the distance, I jotted down this story, the stormy sunset mirroring the burden Atul now carried. This is a tale of power, and why it frightens us all.

The Burden of Power

Power whether in leadership, work, or personal life—offers influence but demands accountability. Atul’s new role in new company meant every choice would be scrutinized, every mistake his to own. This burden deters many, not because they lack ambition, but because power strips away the comfort of deflection.

Why People Fear Power

Loss of Victimhood: Power ends the ability to blame others. Atul, now in charge, knows outcomes rest on him.

Fear of Failure: Power amplifies mistakes, and the risk of public failure looms large, as Atul now fears.

Heavy Responsibility: Decisions have consequences—layoffs, policy shifts—that weigh heavily, a reality Atul is facing.

No Blame-Shifting: In power, you can’t point fingers. The buck stops with you.

Exposure to Criticism: Power invites judgment, a spotlight Atul is already feeling in his new role.

Power and Accountability

Power and accountability are inseparable. To lead, you must own your actions and results. I recall Atul saying, “I watched our old CEO take flak for tough calls, but he stood by them.” Excuses erode trust, while accountability builds strength.

Overcoming the Fear

To embrace power, reframe it as an opportunity. As I write about this, the sunset is fading into stormy darkness, I imagine advising Atul:

Know Yourself: Understand your strengths to wield power confidently.

Accept Mistakes: Errors are growth opportunities, not failures.

Build Resilience: Toughen up for criticism and setbacks.

Seek Honest Feedback: Surround yourself with truth-tellers.

Focus on Purpose: Let positive change guide your decisions.

People fear power because it demands accountability and strips away excuses. As I finish this in Zanzibar, the storm overtakes the sunset, much like Atul will grow into his role with time. Power is a chance to lead and create change. By embracing responsibility, you turn fear into strength, owning your impact. It’s about courage to act and resolve to stand by your choices.

“What advice would you give Atul if you wanted to advise him?”