Communicating Power/Daily Practice: Communicating Power with Integrity

The style of our communication establishes a power relationship.

Based on the Communicating Power Wikiversity page, which highlights how power can be misused—specifically through "transparent attempts to artificially inflate your status at the expense of the person you are offending"—here’s a refined “Communicating Power Mindfully” Daily Practice Checklist.[1]

Morning — Set Your Intention

  • Reflect on power dynamics: Remind yourself that power isn't just about dominance—it’s about the quality of your influence. Transparent displays of status (i.e., showing power to intimidate or belittle) can undermine trust and dignity.
  • Choose your guiding intention:“Today, I will communicate from a place of respect, not superiority.”

During the Day — Observe, Reflect, Act

  1. Notice power imbalances
    • In meetings, discussions, or informal exchanges, be aware when your status might inadvertently intimidate others.
    • If you find yourself using privileged knowledge, tone, or posture to assert dominance, pause and recalibrate.
  2. Balance assertiveness with humility
    • Strive for clarity and confidence without overshadowing others.
    • Use inclusive phrases (e.g., “Let’s explore this together,” “What do you think?”) rather than authoritative language.
  3. Promote Authentic Dialogue
    • Encourage equitable exchange of ideas—create space where voices feel safe, not silenced.
    • Avoid giving "power cues" like interrupting, dismissing, or overshadowing contributions.
  4. Check your intent
    • Ask yourself: Am I communicating to connect or to assert hierarchy?
    • If it's the latter, reconsider—are you elevating the conversation or creating walls?

Evening — Reflect & Grow

  • Reflect in journal or mental note:
    • When did I assert power—intentionally or inadvertently?
    • Did I notice others pulling back? Was that a sign of something unspoken?
    • How well did I foster mutual understanding rather than dominance?
  • Affirmations to reinforce mindful communication:
    • “I lead with respect, not authority.”
    • “True power lies in listening, not overpowering.”
    • “I make space for others to speak and be heard.”
  1. ↑ ChatGPT generated this text responding to the prompt: “Generate an ‘communicating power’ daily practice checklist based on the materials at: https://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/Communicating_Power”.
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