The Wisdom of Letting Go of Power
Dr Santosh Kumar Mohapatra
Very few people know how to exercise power with wisdom, restraint and responsibility. Many suffer more when they lose power, whether through a normal transition or under unfavourable circumstances. They struggle to accept the harsh reality of life: nothing is permanent, and no position of power lasts forever.
The political world offers numerous examples of this tendency. Some politicians find it difficult to adjust to life after losing office, regardless of whether their departure follows the democratic process or other circumstances. Over time, this mindset is extending into other spheres of life, including trade unions.
True leadership is not defined merely by holding power but by knowing how to use it responsibly and how to relinquish it gracefully when the time comes. People should therefore cultivate creative interests, intellectual pursuits and meaningful social activities that can enrich their lives even after they hand over their responsibilities through a normal and orderly process.
Power may provide a position, but wisdom lies in knowing when to move beyond it.
