Power is like being a lady… if you have to tell people you are, you aren’t. Margaret Thatcher.
As a Black South African, I was considered a 2nd class citizen. This has made me oppose vociferously attempts by people in so called positions of power trying to usurp their authority over me. I have fought all my life against being oppressed for no reason and I find myself having to do this from time to time.
People with real power, never have to do anything to demonstrate that they are in charge. They command authority and respect without having to put anyone down to do this.
I have never been able to conceive how any rational being could propose happiness to himself from the exercise of power over others. Thomas Jefferson
Have you related your thoughts to the autocratic manager? I find that when you confront someone and let them know how a situation is for you they quickly change their tune. It’s amazing to see this in action. I know someone who has a great knack at changing someone’s attitude in given situations.
It’s sad that we are all subjected to discrimination on many different levels. Bias and discrimination, I can forgive in the face of ignorance. But when ignorance matures into arrogance is where I have major issues.
If the autocrat hasn’t been educated (I.e. Empowered with knowledge to make an objective mature response to a situation/issue that doesn’t create negativity) then enlighten her!!! If you already have, she’s just may of drowned in her arrogant power.
I teach me children that there is usually a deficit in someone’s life / self that results in the above behaviour. People often attempt to cover an ugly perceived aspect of their self by using aggressive, bullying, discriminative behaviour that adversely affects others in attempts to hide it. It’s about inflating their own egos to feel better about themselves which in my view is sad, yet quite pathetic!!!!
I made an attempt Carol. Asked for a meeting attended by Sandie and myself and the manager and one of her staff. She got really defensive and went on the attack. It has made things worse now. Anything I do that she doesn’t agree with, she has taken to a higher level. I have actually dropped 2 theatre lists from her hospital since and will probably be looking at dropping even more soon.