48 Laws of Power: Law 1
Always make those above you feel comfortably superior. In your desire to please or impress them, do not go too far in displaying your talents or you might accomplish the opposite – inspire fear and insecurity. Make your masters appear more brilliant than they are and you will attain the heights of power.
Always Make Those Above You Feel Comfortably Superior
Law 1 from The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene is a foundational principle for anyone seeking influence or advancement:
⚖️ Core Idea
- When interacting with people in authority, avoid outshining them.
- If you showcase your talents too boldly, it can provoke insecurity, fear, or resentment in your superiors.
- Instead, make them look good—highlight their strengths and subtly support their image of competence and brilliance.
🧠 Psychological Insight
- People in power often tie their self-worth to their status.
- If they feel threatened or overshadowed, they may sabotage your progress—even if your intentions are good.
🎭 Strategic Approach
- Praise them subtly and sincerely.
- Let them take credit when it is tactically useful.
- Use restraint in showing off your skills. Your excellence will speak for itself over time, without making others feel inferior.
📈 Long-Term Benefit
- By making your superiors feel secure, valued, and respected, you gain trust.
- This opens doors to influence, opportunities, and upward mobility—without provoking rivalries.
It’s a bit like playing chess: not every powerful move needs to be loud. Some are all about positioning.
Summary: Make your masters appear more brilliant than they are, and you will attain the heights of power.
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