"Si vous voulez du pouvoir à un moment donné vous devrez convaincre certains humains de vous faire confiance"

To grasp the essence of this quote, let's start with the basic idea: gaining power isn't just about being strong or smart—it's about getting people to believe in you. Trust is a fundamental currency in any human endeavor, whether in politics, business, or personal relationships. Without it, leadership crumbles.

Historically, trust has always been a crucial element in leadership. Think about it—why did people follow charismatic leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. or Mahatma Gandhi? It wasn't just their ideas; it was the trust they inspired in others. People believed in their vision and, more importantly, in them as individuals. This trust allowed these leaders to mobilize large groups of people and effect significant change.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Consider a CEO of a startup. This person might have a brilliant product and a clear vision for the company's future. But without the trust of their team, investors, and customers, the company won't go far. Remember Steve Jobs? He wasn't just convincing people to buy Apple's products; he was making them trust in the Apple brand and its promise of innovation. This trust wasn't built overnight—it was the result of consistent, reliable actions and clear communication over time.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by being authentic. People can sense when someone isn't being genuine. Be transparent about your intentions and open in your communications. For instance, if you're leading a project at work, keep your team in the loop about both successes and challenges. This honesty builds trust because people know they can rely on you to tell them the truth, even when it’s not all good news.

Now, imagine you're a manager trying to implement a new strategy at your company. If you just announce the changes without involving your team, they're likely to feel blindsided and resistant. Instead, start by sharing your vision and explaining why this shift is necessary. Ask for their input and show that you value their opinions. By involving them in the process, you're not just telling them what to do—you're inviting them to be part of the journey. This approach builds trust and makes people more willing to follow your lead.

I remember a time when I led a community service project. Initially, I thought my enthusiasm would be enough to get everyone on board. But I quickly realized that people needed more than just a passionate speech. They needed to know that I had a clear plan and that I was committed to seeing it through. I started having one-on-one conversations, listening to their concerns, and addressing their doubts. Slowly but surely, they began to trust me and, as a result, became more engaged and committed to the project.

In essence, if you seek power or influence, remember that it’s not about dominating—it's about earning trust. It's about showing people that you're reliable, honest, and genuinely invested in their well-being. And once you've earned that trust, the possibilities are endless. So, go out there and be someone people can believe in.