Meaning: The quote "Power is the ability to get things done" by Rosabeth Moss Kanter encapsulates the essence of power in the context of achieving goals and making an impact. Rosabeth Moss Kanter is a renowned business theorist, professor, and author who has made significant contributions to the understanding of organizational behavior, leadership, and change management. Her work has focused on the dynamics of power and influence within organizations, and this quote reflects her perspective on the nature of power.

In the realm of business and leadership, the concept of power is often associated with authority, control, and influence. However, Kanter's definition of power goes beyond traditional notions of hierarchical control and emphasizes the practical outcome of getting things done. This definition implies that power is not merely about exerting authority over others, but rather about the ability to drive progress and achieve objectives effectively.

Kanter's emphasis on the ability to "get things done" highlights the proactive and results-oriented nature of power. It suggests that true power is manifested through tangible actions and accomplishments, rather than through empty displays of authority or dominance. In this sense, power becomes synonymous with effectiveness and productivity, as it is ultimately measured by the ability to produce meaningful outcomes.

Moreover, Kanter's quote underscores the idea that power is not confined to individuals in positions of formal authority. While leaders and executives certainly wield significant power within organizations, power can also be distributed across various levels and roles. In fact, Kanter is known for her concept of "lateral power," which refers to the influence and impact that individuals can have within an organization, regardless of their official status or title. This concept aligns with her belief in the democratization of power, where employees at all levels are empowered to contribute to the achievement of organizational goals.

From a broader perspective, Kanter's quote resonates with the notion of empowerment and agency. It suggests that power is not a static or finite resource held exclusively by a select few, but rather a dynamic force that can be cultivated and leveraged by individuals and teams. By framing power as the ability to "get things done," Kanter encourages a mindset of proactive engagement and initiative, wherein individuals are empowered to take ownership of their work and make meaningful contributions.

In the context of leadership, Kanter's definition of power also has implications for the style and approach of effective leaders. Rather than relying solely on formal authority or coercion, leaders who embody Kanter's concept of power prioritize collaboration, motivation, and the facilitation of collective action. They understand that true power lies in the ability to mobilize resources, align efforts, and drive progress towards shared objectives.

Overall, Rosabeth Moss Kanter's quote "Power is the ability to get things done" encapsulates a pragmatic and action-oriented perspective on power. It challenges conventional notions of power as hierarchical control and emphasizes the significance of effectiveness, productivity, and proactive engagement. By reframing power in this way, Kanter highlights the potential for empowerment, collaboration, and collective impact within organizations. Her insights continue to influence the understanding of power dynamics in the realms of business, leadership, and organizational behavior.