What motivates you? There are arguably three major need-based theories of human motivation: (1) Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs ranging from basic physiological needs to the seldom-achieved need to actualize your full potential; (2) Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, which differentiates hygiene factors that serve to satisfy core needs from factors that serve to motivate people to go above and beyond; and (3) David McClelland’s Theory of Human Motivation, which asserts there are three fundamental drives that serve to motivate. They are the need for affiliation and interpersonal connection, the need to achieve by overcoming challenges and problem-solving, and the need for power. Though not immediately obvious, the theme of personal power is central to all three of these theories of need satisfaction and human motivation. But it was McClelland who seemed to understand the critical role power played more so than the others.

McClelland was a Harvard icon. He was a collaborator with Henry Murray, a potential nemesis for B. F. Skinner, a faculty member from 1956 to 1986, and founder of an international behavioral sciences consulting firm. He was my teacher, advisor, sponsor, and friend. We would have spirited discussions during our Wednesday lunches while sitting at the “Long Table.” It would take me years to understand the variety of roles power played in the lives of extraordinarily successful people. In fact, McClelland asserted that those who rose to great personal and professional success had acquired, more than a need for achievement, the need for power! It seemed a virtual sine qua non to reach the highest echelons.

Power consists of three dimensions: the ability to influence or control (1) other people, (2) the environment within which one lives or works, and (3) oneself (self-control). Power can be used constructively or it can be abused. Listed below are some selected “laws” for acquiring and constructively using personal power drawn from the research of McClelland (1975) and others.

© George S. Everly, Jr., Ph.D.

References

Everly, GS, Jr. & Athey, A (2022). Leading Beyond Crisis. Washington, DC: APA

Everly, GS, Jr. & Lating, JM (2019). Clinical Guide to the Treatment of the Human Stress Response. NY: Springer.

McClelland, DC (1975). Power: The Inner Experience. NY: Irvington.

Sun Tzu (1910 trans. Lionel Gile). The Art of War. London: Britisk Museum.