It is easier to talk about money -- and much easier to talk about sex -- than it is to talk about power. People who have it deny it; people who want it do not want to appear to hunger for it; and people who engage in its machinations do so secretly.

The way innovating companies are designed leaves ambiguities, overlaps, decision conflicts or decision vacuums in some parts of the organisation. People rail at this, curse it-and invent innovative ways to overcome it.

Too many people let others stand in their way and don't go back for one more try.

Power stems from 'rainmaking,' as law firms put it: the ability to bring resources into the company.

The importance of discretion increases with closeness to the top of a hierarchical organization.

The Martha Stewart trial makes clear how far women have risen in the business world. America can be proud of our equal-opportunity prosecution and conviction.

If world problems feel too big to tackle, think small. Step by step. Small wins build confidence, lead the way to change.