Leadership Strength vs. Force: Why One Inspires and the Other Controls
This week I am over in the Middle East keynoting and have been doing a lot of thinking about leadership and what people on tv and in the media tell us what leadership is. In our world of leadership, It seems that strength and force are often mistaken for the same thing. Both can move people. Both can make an impact. But for me, their methods - and their results - couldn't be more different. So let’s talk about them!
Because, I will boldy say that in today’s world understanding the difference between strength and force might be one of the most important distinctions a leader can make.
Let’s explore why.
Strength Is Internal. Force Is External.
Strength comes from within. It's built on self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and clarity of values. The strong leader doesn’t need to raise their voice or exert dominance to be heard. Their presence, consistency, and authenticity do the work for them.
Force, on the other hand, comes from the outside. It relies on titles, authority, pressure, or fear to make others comply. It’s loud, often reactive, and usually rooted in insecurity or the desire to control.
Strength Influences. Force Controls.
The leader who operates from strength inspires others to follow willingly. They create environments where people want to show up, contribute, and grow. Strength invites collaboration, trust, and creativity.
Force demands obedience. It operates through ultimatums, fear of consequences, and an "or else" energy. While it may create short-term compliance, it rarely fosters long-term loyalty or innovation.
Strength Empowers. Force Suppresses.
When we lead from strength, we empower those around us. We don’t need to have all the answers - we simply need to help others find their own. We don’t compete with our team - we elevate them.
Force, however, suppresses others. It shuts down initiative, crushes creativity, and keeps people small. Over time, force erodes trust and drives people away.
Strength Is Sustainable. Force Burns Out.
Leaders who embody strength build something that lasts. Teams led by strength are more likely to thrive through change, handle conflict with maturity, and innovate when challenges arise.
Force, by contrast, is exhausting - for everyone involved. It might produce results in the short term, but it drains energy, creates resentment, and often collapses under pressure.
The Bottom Line
Strength is earned influence.
Force is imposed control.
As leaders, our job is not to overpower but to empower. Not to coerce but to cultivate. Not to push harder, but to stand stronger.
I can tell you that I see these two types of leaders in all countries. It is not culturally exclusive. So if we want to lead the team that trusts us, follows us, and grows with us - then let’s commit to leading with strength and not force, this is how I feel like our world will get even better. The kind of strength that listens, that pauses, that includes, that lifts others up. That is THE!
Because at the end of the day, force may get people to move.
Strength will make them want to stay.