Power, according to author Olivia Fox Cabane, simply “means being perceived as able to affect the world around us, whether through influence on or authority over others, large amounts of money, expertise, intelligence, sheer physical strength, or high social status.”

Being able to affect the world around us. Powerful people can get things done, or at least they give that impression. Charismatic individuals draw people into their orbit like a magnet, and Power is the crux of that magnetic force. It’s a primal attraction that some use as a tool for their own personal gain.

We see this played out all around us. Back in our caveman times, our survival could depend on being friends with the big dogs at the top of the social hierarchy – those who could offer protection and food. 

However, our brains have evolved to be attracted to body language and status markers that indicate power, mostly unconsciously. And what is that costing us now?