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POWER: A woman's guide to living and leading without apology
Shift your thinking about what power is and who gets to have it. Live and lead fully, without apology.
Kemi Nekvapil knows the feelings of fear, vulnerability and powerlessness. Growing up in foster care, many times she had the doors to validation and opportunity closed to her because of her race and gender. Learning to make her own choices and use her voice without apology were her first steps towards a bold, purpose-filled life.
Now a highly respected executive and personal coach, Kemi has created a five-step framework to guide other women to build their power through:
Presence to understand what is and isn’t working in our lives
Ownership of our personal narratives, especially our power stories
Wisdom about our needs, boundaries and growth
Equality as part of the diverse human family, all of us worthy
Responsibility for our choices, healing and happiness
Blending inspiring stories with reflective coaching practices, POWER provides the tools to navigate the challenges that impact who we are and how we lead, from discrimination and burnout to trauma and self-doubt.
Reclaim your power and create a life of true joy and fulfilment.
Kemi Nekvapil knows the feelings of fear, vulnerability and powerlessness. Growing up in foster care, many times she had the doors to validation and opportunity closed to her because of her race and gender. Learning to make her own choices and use her voice without apology were her first steps towards a bold, purpose-filled life.
Now a highly respected executive and personal coach, Kemi has created a five-step framework to guide other women to build their power through:
Presence to understand what is and isn’t working in our lives
Ownership of our personal narratives, especially our power stories
Wisdom about our needs, boundaries and growth
Equality as part of the diverse human family, all of us worthy
Responsibility for our choices, healing and happiness
Blending inspiring stories with reflective coaching practices, POWER provides the tools to navigate the challenges that impact who we are and how we lead, from discrimination and burnout to trauma and self-doubt.
Reclaim your power and create a life of true joy and fulfilment.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2022
101 people are currently reading
1107 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
January 14, 2023
This was much better done than many books of this genre. It's probably her connection to Brene Brown/ Dare to Lead, and how much I respect that research.
She had a great mix of storytelling, actionable steps, and case studies to talk about women and their power (or how to find it). The book is written in byte-sized chunks, which is helpful.
There doesn't seem to be a place to enter quotes for this book. Here are some I liked:
Softening into the joyful moments of our lives requires vulnerability. I think it's because when we risk delight, we are also risking disappointment. We risk giving ourselves over to a feeling that exposes us and we risk losing control. Delight is experienced in the small moments... but you have to be present to catch it. - Brene Brown in Dare to Lead
What would my future self want me to do in this moment?
We don't need busy women. We need present and powerful women.
When something isn't going well:
Instead of defending and reacting - focus on resolution.
When trying to reconnect after an argument:
What do you need to feel OK in this situation?
The imprints we have regarding who gets to do what job in the world are limiting and oppressive.
If we close our eyes and try to conger up the image of a president or to move into the knowledge economy, a professor, what most of us see is not a woman and that's just as true if you are a woman professor. The cultural stereotype is so strong that at the level of those close your eyes fantasies it is still hard for me to imagine me, or someone like me in my role.
If we do not step into those opportunities with the belief and confidence in our right to be there, we will not be able to make the difference so many of us want to make.
Come together and share these experiences because we are not alone. Most of us have some form of conscious or unconscious imprints. Sharing them with each other diminishes their power over us.
What negative beliefs do you have about yourself that hold you back?
Where do those beliefs come from? Who gave them to you?
Which beliefs do you need to let go of and which ones do you need to own?
I believe there are two types of people in the world - those who love musicals or those who hate them. I have never met anyone who was so-so about musicals. You're either in or you're out. I'm in.
(I love this quote because it's so ME!)
Create you power project-
Choose one area of you life in which you want to build your power. Answer the questions to measure the power you feel in that area of your life, the traits you need to practice, and the actions you need to take:
On a scale of 1-10 -10 being highest (but don't use 7 - because that's the safe number everyone picks) - How much power do you feel you currently have in this area?
Which of the 5 power principles do you need to practice in this area - 1) presence, 2)ownership, 3) wisdom, 4) equality, or 5) responsibility
What would success look like in this area of your life?
What empowered feelings would be present in this area of your life?
How will you know you are making progress?
What are the first three actions you need to take to build your powerbase in this area of your life?
She had a great mix of storytelling, actionable steps, and case studies to talk about women and their power (or how to find it). The book is written in byte-sized chunks, which is helpful.
There doesn't seem to be a place to enter quotes for this book. Here are some I liked:
Softening into the joyful moments of our lives requires vulnerability. I think it's because when we risk delight, we are also risking disappointment. We risk giving ourselves over to a feeling that exposes us and we risk losing control. Delight is experienced in the small moments... but you have to be present to catch it. - Brene Brown in Dare to Lead
What would my future self want me to do in this moment?
We don't need busy women. We need present and powerful women.
When something isn't going well:
Instead of defending and reacting - focus on resolution.
When trying to reconnect after an argument:
What do you need to feel OK in this situation?
The imprints we have regarding who gets to do what job in the world are limiting and oppressive.
If we close our eyes and try to conger up the image of a president or to move into the knowledge economy, a professor, what most of us see is not a woman and that's just as true if you are a woman professor. The cultural stereotype is so strong that at the level of those close your eyes fantasies it is still hard for me to imagine me, or someone like me in my role.
If we do not step into those opportunities with the belief and confidence in our right to be there, we will not be able to make the difference so many of us want to make.
Come together and share these experiences because we are not alone. Most of us have some form of conscious or unconscious imprints. Sharing them with each other diminishes their power over us.
What negative beliefs do you have about yourself that hold you back?
Where do those beliefs come from? Who gave them to you?
Which beliefs do you need to let go of and which ones do you need to own?
I believe there are two types of people in the world - those who love musicals or those who hate them. I have never met anyone who was so-so about musicals. You're either in or you're out. I'm in.
(I love this quote because it's so ME!)
Create you power project-
Choose one area of you life in which you want to build your power. Answer the questions to measure the power you feel in that area of your life, the traits you need to practice, and the actions you need to take:
On a scale of 1-10 -10 being highest (but don't use 7 - because that's the safe number everyone picks) - How much power do you feel you currently have in this area?
Which of the 5 power principles do you need to practice in this area - 1) presence, 2)ownership, 3) wisdom, 4) equality, or 5) responsibility
What would success look like in this area of your life?
What empowered feelings would be present in this area of your life?
How will you know you are making progress?
What are the first three actions you need to take to build your powerbase in this area of your life?
June 10, 2024
‘Power’ by executive and personal coach, Kemi Nekvapil was a non-fiction read as part of the Birds of a Feather book club. It was a slow read for me but each time I engaged with it, I always took away something valuable. Kemi is an incredible storyteller and advocate for women claiming their power- she herself has overcome racism and a disadvantaged childhood to reclaim her power and forge a successful and fulfilled life. Kemi talks a lot directly to women of colour and to white women about their racial privilege and how we can all work together to bridge the gap. I really enjoyed this read and can definitely see myself applying the POWER principle to my professional and personal life.
February 11, 2025
Highly recommend in helping to navigate one self to find ones own power. Beautifully written, almost like a workbook to reflect and evolve. Lucky to have met the author was to shy to speak at the time..
June 14, 2023
Powerful!
A read for every person
A read for every person
February 12, 2023
Kemi’s story is inspiring! So glad I got to know her better through this book. I give this book 3 stars because it’s best for folks looking to BEGIN either their self-help journey or their anti-bias/anti-racist journey.
At times, the book felt a bit like a regurgitated Super Soul Sunday episode, as Kemi is very inspired by folks like Oprah and Brene Brown. Kemi shines best in this book when she writes from her embodied experience and relies less on the ideas she gets from these big name self help gurus.
I read this book along side one of my good friends and it gave us a ton to talk about. So grateful for the discussions it prompted and where it challenged me to go deeper.
At times, the book felt a bit like a regurgitated Super Soul Sunday episode, as Kemi is very inspired by folks like Oprah and Brene Brown. Kemi shines best in this book when she writes from her embodied experience and relies less on the ideas she gets from these big name self help gurus.
I read this book along side one of my good friends and it gave us a ton to talk about. So grateful for the discussions it prompted and where it challenged me to go deeper.
May 8, 2022
So many ‘aha’ moments reading this book. I’m now working through the exercises, identifying and challenging long-held assumptions, and stepping into my own power. Great book!
May 13, 2022
An interesting book with lots of great ideas and strategies for you to step up in life!
May 7, 2022
Power is a truly inspiring book that needs to be held in the hands of every woman walking on this planet. I am the type of person who stops reading books a few chapters in but Kemi’s book took me by surprise! I finished it all! And it is a book I hold so dearly close to my heart. I feel something when I hug it and hold it dearly.
This book has really gave me the strength and determination to not only own myself but to take control of myself and my story narrative! I have been running on other narratives people have been placed on me an I haven’t been living in my true authentic power. But Kemi’s book and especially her chapters the power of presence and the power of a pause allowed me to strip back the narratives that have not been serving me. I was able to truly think about the best decision for myself and the best response for every situation as well, with being present and pausing to ensure I respond rather than react.
Power is doing things that brings you up, lights you up and fills you up allowing you to then fill into others people’s cup! Power is built with others not over others. Together as one we all stand in our own authenticity.
This book has really gave me the strength and determination to not only own myself but to take control of myself and my story narrative! I have been running on other narratives people have been placed on me an I haven’t been living in my true authentic power. But Kemi’s book and especially her chapters the power of presence and the power of a pause allowed me to strip back the narratives that have not been serving me. I was able to truly think about the best decision for myself and the best response for every situation as well, with being present and pausing to ensure I respond rather than react.
Power is doing things that brings you up, lights you up and fills you up allowing you to then fill into others people’s cup! Power is built with others not over others. Together as one we all stand in our own authenticity.
April 27, 2022
POWER-FUL! Wow, another amazing read by Kemi, thank you. You know how to speak directly to the heart and soul. Thank you for blessing us with this and at such a time as this.
The power processes and call to action at the end of each chapter are great. Love when a book has tangible actions to help cement the insights. Plan to re-read in a year.
The power processes and call to action at the end of each chapter are great. Love when a book has tangible actions to help cement the insights. Plan to re-read in a year.
May 27, 2022
I read this one for work and was pleasantly surprised! I liked that each chapter had actionable things for you to do. I recommend reading this one slowly so that you have time to absorb and try each new idea.
January 20, 2024
Great for looking at internal discrimination
May 20, 2022
I've been receiving Kemi's emails for quite some time now, so was pretty excited to purchase this - I knew it would be good, but wasn't expecting to learn as much as I did. As someone with a social work and education background I'm no stranger to analysing and critiquing power, anti-racism work, and feminism. However, Kemi's approach was such a beautifully refreshing read (with good size font - thank you!!). You can delve into the text in a linear fashion, or dip in and out however you feel like. Whether it's your first read or your fifth you'll find something that resonates in a different way as you move through your own experiences and reflect on how power and positionality is being played out in your own life - and how you use power to build others up rather than exert power 'over' others.
And possibly my favourite eye opener? How much energy you wish to expend on growing the perfect carrots if it isn't really a goal for you - I'm definitely going to be looking my projects as carrots from now on.
And possibly my favourite eye opener? How much energy you wish to expend on growing the perfect carrots if it isn't really a goal for you - I'm definitely going to be looking my projects as carrots from now on.
May 12, 2022
Power By Kemi Nekvapill - is a book that at the very least should be taught to high school students.
A page turner and easy to read (in terms of not being too wordy or clinical) beautifully written.
Kemi delivers this book with gentle but powerful words. Raising awareness we can all benefit from.
The more I turned the pages, the more I could relate and identify. This book has raised my awareness to many subject matters and has me starting each day with much more consciousness of not just myself but those around me.
My book is filled with many reference markers, and currently on my second read working through the processes.
I highly recommend, and would gift to friends, family and business partners.
A page turner and easy to read (in terms of not being too wordy or clinical) beautifully written.
Kemi delivers this book with gentle but powerful words. Raising awareness we can all benefit from.
The more I turned the pages, the more I could relate and identify. This book has raised my awareness to many subject matters and has me starting each day with much more consciousness of not just myself but those around me.
My book is filled with many reference markers, and currently on my second read working through the processes.
I highly recommend, and would gift to friends, family and business partners.
June 23, 2024
⭐️⭐️ a solid self-development book for anyone beginning their own pathway to learning about themselves and their own power. I didn’t find it all that captivating and the concepts felt a bit rushed and repeated from other books I’ve read. However, Kemi’s story is interesting and it’s evident she has become a woman of power through many challenges. Her framework of Presence, Ownership, Wisdom, Equality and Responsibility (spelling POWER), are certainly important aspects in living an impactful life. As mentioned, a book more suited for those just ready to commence their journey of self empowerment.
May 27, 2022
Easy to read, great practical exercises to complete too. I found I was able to put into practice several new skills after reading this book. Valuable reading for people of any colour or background, I'd go as far to say essential reading for white women from privileged backgrounds - there are some confronting case studies in the book that will go some way to help us better understand what it's like for some people to navigate this world. A book that will stay with you and one that I think deserves to he referred to often.
August 2, 2022
Kemi is not only an talented author but also an amazing story teller, her message is important and impactful. The flow of this book is easy to listen to and implement positive practices. I have read many books, most have given me fabulous take aways. This book talks to my worthiness, building my confidence, being more courageous and remembering to trust in my gut instinct. Kemi is such an intelligent woman and this world is a better place because of her and the encouragement she shares. Thank you so much. Go out and ask for what you need.
August 12, 2022
I am totally absorbed by Kemi Nekvapil’s book, Power. I first heard Kemi being interviewed on the Imperfects podcast. I loved her story and the power of her voice. I am listening to the audible version as I love the way Kemi tells her life stories. After listening to the book I realised I will need to buy the hard copy so I can make notes and process the actions in my own time.
I have already recommended this book to at least five of my friends. What a life changer for people who read this book.
I have already recommended this book to at least five of my friends. What a life changer for people who read this book.
November 7, 2022
This Book Is An Absolute Read!! It is easy to read, Kemi has placed so much into prospective for all women. Defiantly Makes You Stop and Think, Maybe I am this way because of this past situation. To Learn to have presence as a women, equality and so much more. I am going to read over it again and currently doing the work booK!! One of the quotes I love is : "Being Present To All Of Your Feelings Is More Powerful Than Walking Around With Half of Your Feelings Hidden From Yourself. Not Only Does It Mean You Dont Belong To Yourself, But It Also Means Others Can't Find You" - Kemi.
April 1, 2022
A very well written and thought provoking book. The question Kemi asks throughput inspire a new way of interpreting the world around us. Her take on face and gender and the crossover between the two was confronting at times, but in a way you know will make you a better ally and ready to take on the work to face your internalised racism and mysoginy, address your privilege and progress as a person.
May 18, 2022
This book has been very thought provoking and has healed a lot of pain around my own cultural identity and framing as a woman. But it has also opened my eyes to the pain and experience of how those without my privileges experience the world. This book has reminded me of my inner POWER and how I am worthy and enough but importantly how I can contribute to emPOWERing others. Thank you Kemi, Forever grateful x
May 26, 2022
a beautiful and powerful book every woman should read
We are in this world that some people would tell us women that we are not worthy, especially when you are a woman with colour (I believe the world is changing though!!). I came across this book in a bookstore and loved it at the first sight. It is absolutely beautiful and Kemi has given us some strategies to deliver POWER in our daily lives. Absolutely worth to read and hope we are living and leading without apology.
We are in this world that some people would tell us women that we are not worthy, especially when you are a woman with colour (I believe the world is changing though!!). I came across this book in a bookstore and loved it at the first sight. It is absolutely beautiful and Kemi has given us some strategies to deliver POWER in our daily lives. Absolutely worth to read and hope we are living and leading without apology.
August 2, 2022
My partner gifting this book to me about a month ago. He could see me struggle more and more everyday with my identify and business aventure. I read the book once and I’m reading it again. This book helps me understand so many aspects of myself. Some truths I needed to read and implement. I read the PRESENCE chapter twice, because it spoke to me the most. Please do yourselves a favour and ready this amazing book!
May 13, 2022
This is a book that I will keep for life.
Words will fail to describe how much of a positive impact it has had on my daily practices. I am reading this religiously!
Kemi, you are my superhero and you’ve unlocked my super-power! Thank you for your wisdom, guidance, humour and honesty. Thank you for reminding me to live life without apology.
Words will fail to describe how much of a positive impact it has had on my daily practices. I am reading this religiously!
Kemi, you are my superhero and you’ve unlocked my super-power! Thank you for your wisdom, guidance, humour and honesty. Thank you for reminding me to live life without apology.
July 13, 2022
One of the best things about this book is the bite sized chunks of power that although powerful and hard hitting in some places, easy to consume and then take a moment to reflect.
Particularly topics like the power of privilege and racism were ones that stood out to me as a white woman wanting to do better.
I've read a lot of personal development books and those was one of the best.
Particularly topics like the power of privilege and racism were ones that stood out to me as a white woman wanting to do better.
I've read a lot of personal development books and those was one of the best.
August 12, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. It opened up my eyes to the reality I was living in. I now see and experience the world from a new and refreshed perspective. I truly believe this book is life changing and I highly recommend women take the time to read and reflect as they embark on their journey of reclaiming their POWER.
September 21, 2022
One of the best books I have ever read. It includes discussion around what it means to be a woman, examining our own power and privilege, as well as the privilege of others, and offers exercises to dive into our own thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. A book to read annually because I think I would get something different from it each time depending on what is happening in my life.
September 24, 2022
I believe this is the best book I have ever read to help women find their power. The storytelling, the empowering words, the exercises are all key. Use this as a workbook, do the exercises… and come back to it time and again as things change and grow in your life. You will not be disappointed. Instead, you will be amazed at the wake you see behind you.
November 23, 2022
I deeply appreciated + enjoyed this book. As someone working on repairing their relationship to collective power, as well learning to show up in my own, this book feels like a supportive place to return to. One with deep heart + honesty. Grace + compassion. And gentle ways of being with the self + others that allows for accountability + tending. Wonderful storytelling too.
February 3, 2023
Fab book, listened to audiobook and would love to read again and get the hard copy to go through all the exercises slowly. Inspiring and challenging. Love how she uses a lot of Brene's language - man in the arena, courage, progress not perfection, vulnerability, shame etc. Love the coaching tips, and all the power stories brought the text to life and gave relevance and diversity.
March 24, 2022
I had to read this for a project we're doing. The book was poorly put together and not coherent. It felt like the chapters were rushed. I’m sorry to say but it felt like Kemi has media exposure right now, so she selects an obvious woke topic and rushed the book to the publisher. Avoid.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews