"力は与えられるものではない。自ら手に入れるものだ。"

The essence of this quote is simple: you can't just sit around waiting for power or authority to be handed to you. If you want it, you have to go out there and grab it yourself. Think about it—no one’s going to casually offer you a promotion or leadership role just because you’re doing a good job. You’ve got to make your move, show initiative, and sometimes even demand what you deserve.

Now, let's dive into a bit of context. This idea has roots in various historical and social movements. Take the civil rights movement, for instance. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X didn’t wait for the system to change on its own. They organized, marched, and spoke out, demanding the rights and power that were long denied to African Americans. They understood that passivity wouldn’t lead to the change they sought.

Think about a modern-day example. Picture a young professional, Lisa, stuck in a mid-level position at a large company. She’s been there for years, putting in extra hours and producing great work. But promotions seem to pass her by. Instead of waiting and hoping, Lisa decides to take action. She starts taking on challenging projects that get her noticed, volunteers for leadership roles in company initiatives, and even seeks out mentors to guide her. Over time, her efforts pay off. She’s recognized as a leader and eventually gets that promotion she wanted. This didn’t happen by chance—Lisa actively pursued the power she sought.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by identifying what you want. Is it a leadership role, a new job, or perhaps starting your own business? Once you know your goal, make a plan. Find out what steps you need to take—whether it’s acquiring new skills, networking, or taking on specific projects. Be proactive. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and ask for what you want. Remember, if you don’t advocate for yourself, who will?

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend, and they’re complaining about being overlooked at work. You might tell them to stand up and take charge. Share the story of Lisa. Tell them how she didn’t wait for things to change but made them change. Encourage them to take that course, pitch that big project, or even just have a sit-down with their boss to discuss their career path. Paint a picture of what their success could look like—promotions, respect, a bigger paycheck—whatever motivates them.

In essence, taking power isn’t always about grand gestures or radical actions. Sometimes, it's about the small, consistent steps you take every day to move closer to your goals. It’s about not settling for less than you deserve and being bold enough to seize opportunities when they come your way. So next time you find yourself waiting for a break, remember: power isn’t given. You have to be ready to take it.