The term empowerment can be used to refer to the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights.

Or in the corporate world, it is more commonly viewed as a component of the culture set by leadership.  In this case it is more about granted power, that is the limits of authority or power given to someone to do something.

Contradictory but Related

In one context empowerment is granted and in the other, it is just taken.  In reality, your personal empowerment is a balanced mix between these two approaches.

How much authority you earn or take on to make yourself stronger and more confident contains some risks.  You may end up suffering consequences from overstepping your granted authority (for example termination) or you may receive a great reward (for example promotion).

Own It

Seeking to become stronger and more confident by taking control of your destiny is not in direct opposition to working within granted authority limits but rather must be used with care to avoid backfiring with unpleasant results.

Ultimately though, your success and aassociated happiness is linked to taking ownership and accountability.  Push the bar, not to far but enough to enable achievement of real personal growth, without consequences.

As you move through life’s experiences seeking and executing that balance is is critical to growing your self satisfaction.  Take control learn from it and  become better for it.

Finding the optimal balance of self empowerment can  bring you great joy.