Power vs Control: The One Question That Exposes Manipulation Fast

Your body knows the difference before your mind admits it.

Power feels like room to breathe.
Control feels like you’re being managed.

Power asks, “What do you want?”
Control asks, “What will you tolerate?”

If you’ve ever caught yourself rehearsing what to say, checking your phone like it’s a heartbeat monitor, or shrinking your needs to keep the peace—this isn’t love getting “intense.” It’s control getting comfortable.

And the moment you start confusing pressure for passion, you become easy to steer.

Watson's Wellness Center

I’m Elena Watson, Ed.D., an educator, leader, and life coach with more than 25 years of experience helping people grow, learn, and thrive.

I earned my doctorate in educational leadership from Walden University and a master’s in special education from the University of San Diego. My career has included serving as a director of special education, school principal, and university educator, where I guided teachers, parents, and students toward success. I also co-founded ABC4IEP LLC, an organization dedicated to supporting families and schools in navigating the special education process.

Along the way, I have continued to expand my skills with certifications in dialectic behavior therapy (DBT) skills training, neurolinguistic programming (NLP) practitioners, grief coaching, and neurodiversity coaching. These tools allow me to support people in life transitions with both practical strategies and compassionate guidance.

Today, through Watson’s Wellness Center, I bring together my background in leadership, psychology, and education to offer digital resources and coaching that empower individuals to endure, evolve, and excel.

https://www.2thriveagain.com
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The Anti-Manipulation Rule is designed to protect your nervous system.

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How to Lower Threat Without Changing Your Life