Locus of Power

  There are two major models of the attribution of power.

  One model is the model of "power over." In this model, "power" is denoted by one's position in a social heirarchy, and the ability to...

 • Make people do things against their will.

 • Do things to people and avoid consequences.




  The other model of power is power to. If one can weave cloth, clothes, bags, shoes, and hats, one has the power to make that happen. If one is versed in finish carpentry, capable of turning a log into a fine jewelery box with many drawers with dovetailings and other joinings, one has the power to produce such an effect. With a little first aid training, such as direct pressure, indirect pressure, and elevation, one can have the power of life or death over a person if something happens, let alone more minor folk remedies such as mint tea for sore throats.

  We'll let you in on a little secret : the eternal war of all against all, having only shallow relationships with fake friends who mostly just try to do each other harm, is very stressful. Meanwhile, the ultra-wealthy tend to have the same thing the average homeless person has : some snacks, and a view, and if you want to make your life better and have some time in the day, getting a small camping stove and trying to find a different scenic location to cook and eat each meal is an easy way to make a much better life for yourself.




  Meanwhile, feelings of powerlessness are related to something called learned helplessness, which is a key factor in depression. Simple exercises of your own power to do - from sensory exploration running your hands through a tub of beans, to painting, to drawing, to knitting a pair of stockings, which is actually fairly easy - may actually improve your mood and mental wellbeing.

  Pay attention to your mood and mental state. If you find yourself falling in to the mindset of social importance or dominance over others, check yourself and take a break. Meanwhile, do everything you can to cultivate actual power in your life, the power to actually do and create - and enjoy.

 • Back to the Stressbusting Vault