Why cant most people handle having power and leadership?

Because power doesn’t change people. It reveals them. I’ve seen it too many times in corporate life: the quiet team player who suddenly becomes a manager and turns into a dictator. Or the brilliant high performer who collapses under the pressure of being responsible for others.

Power is like a spotlight, it magnifies whatever is already inside you. If you’re insecure, it shows. If you’re grounded, that shows too.

Take an example from everyday work: Two people are promoted to lead a team.

The first one micromanages, pulls rank in every meeting, and slowly loses the trust of their colleagues.

The second one spends their first week just listening, asking what the team needs, and earns respect that lasts.