Power is not the problem. How leaders use it is.
Many leaders confuse authority with control. Others avoid power to stay liked. Both choices damage performance. The work of Brené Brown reframes this clearly through three forms of power.
Power over relies on dominance and fear. It creates compliance, not commitment.
Power with builds shared ownership. It scales trust and results.
Power to enables action. It gives people the ability to decide and move.
The challenge in 2026 is not a lack of power. It is misuse.
In my work with leaders across retail, pharma, and complex global organizations, I see the same pattern. Leaders rise through expertise, then struggle when influence replaces execution. Some cling to control. Others withdraw. Few adapt their power style as scope grows.
The cost is high. Teams slow down. Decisions get stuck. Talented people disengage.
The opportunity is real. Leaders who shift from power over to power with unlock speed and accountability. Leaders who use power to enable others multiply impact. This does not mean being soft. It means being clear.
I work with all types of leaders. Some refuse to change. They protect status. They repeat old moves. Others lean in. They question habits. They evolve. The difference shows fast in trust, delivery, and results.
In November, my work takes me across Asia, Latin America, and Switzerland. I will support leaders in retail and pharma navigating growth, pressure, and power dynamics in diverse cultural contexts. Power looks different across regions. Misuse looks the same.
Better leadership starts with power awareness. Not intention. Behavior.
How you can make a difference and intention for 2026:
• Name how you use power today in one key relationship.
• Replace one control move with a clarity move this month.
Two long term actions I suggest:
• Train leaders to recognize and adapt power styles as scope increases.
• Build systems where authority and accountability travel together.
Start reflecting on: Which form of power do people experience when they work with you?”
If you want to strengthen leadership without losing authority, let’s talk. Info at gabrielamueller.com
Global important events happening in November 2026 in the world:
• Web Summit, Lisbon, Portugal (Nov 9–12, 2026). One of the world’s largest tech and innovation gatherings, bringing together CEOs, founders, policymakers, and leaders shaping the future of work, AI, leadership, and business.
• Global Cyber Conference 2026 (Europe). Security, AI, and leadership conversations converge as cyber risk becomes a strategic leadership priority.
• Big 5 Global, Dubai (Nov 23–26, 2026). Massive global construction and urban innovation event with leadership, partnerships, and strategy focused dialogues across sectors.
• Annual Leadership Conference, Bangkok, Thailand (Nov 13–15, 2026). Brings together education and leadership influencers with a strong focus on innovation, people strategy, and organizational performance.
• Ongoing global leadership and innovation summits curated across Europe and the USA in November, covering transformation, digital strategy, and future leadership practices.
Where will Coach Gabriela go next?
• Asia
• Latin America
• Switzerland
• Corporate programs in retail and pharma
Let's connect.