The biggest limit on our actions and behaviours is our perception of what we are authorised to do. We deauthorise ourselves constantly. We wait to be given authority to act that we could just take.
Authority is Often Your Perception
Because we are unsure of what authority others will give us we wait for clarity. In this uncertainty, our perceptions of authority can be wildly off the mark.
In most cases, other people are just hoping we or someone would do something. They are willing to give authority to act to people who can get something done. Their view of your authority is a perception too. The best way to change it is to act.
Our perceptions of authority also cause us to deauthorise ourselves in other ways:
- we worry whether we can express our opinions
- we worry what information we can share
- we worry whether we can help others
- we worry whether we can solve problems
- we even worry what clothes are acceptable to wear
All of this worry is wasted. We either have the authority or it can be quickly clarified. It can be embarrassing to be wrong on one’s authority but a little social embarrassment is part of getting things done.
Authorise Yourself
Recognise authority is a perception. Perceptions change quickly. Authorise yourself. Act.
If there is an issue, you will discover quickly. Mostly others will gravitate to support your authoritative acts.
For the cost of a little occasional embarrassment you can avoid a great deal of worry and stress. More importantly you will get much more done.
As the famous adage goes “Ask for forgiveness. Don’t ask for permission”.
