It’s recess, and the schoolyard is alive with the shouts and laughter of children. In the midst of the playful chaos stands a figure who commands the playground—whether by fear or respect—a school bully. This character, often misunderstood, wields influence with a mix of bravado, charm, and a strategic use of power.

Fast forward a few decades, and you might find that the dynamics of the playground have subtly shifted into the boardroom, where the bully’s role is now played by the CEO.

The parallels between the two are striking, if not unsettling. Both the school bully and the CEO navigate environments where power dynamics, influence, and control are at the forefront.…