Laws of Power

In 1996, American author Robert Greene was at a self-admitted crossroads.

He was presented with an opportunity to work on his first book, which would allow him to quit a job he hated, but was still his only source of income.

While re-reading his favorite Julius Caesar biography, Greene said: “I came to the moment when he was deciding whether to cross the Rubicon River to fight with Pompey, even though he had only a small force with him. It would mean initiating a civil war and going against incredible odds. He decided to cross the Rubicon, after declaring the die is cast. As I do when I read such texts, I put myself in his shoes and imagined what an insane risk it was for him to take, and yet Caesar lived for such moments and came alive when the odds were against him. I thought: 'My situation is much less intense, but I will follow Caesar and not only write the proposal, but take three months to do it right.'"

After that courageous decision was made, the 48 Laws of Power became an instant best seller.

It has sold over 1.2 million copies, has been read by world leaders, and offers incredible advice to anyone who assumes power, deals with a powerful person or wants to understand the impact of power.

Law No. 16 is an especially-helpful reminder to any leader.

Use absence to increase strength and honor

The more you are seen and heard from, the more common you appear. If you are already established in a group, temporary withdrawal from it will make you more talked about, even more admired. You must learn when to leave. Create value through scarcity.

Scarcity is typically a marketing tactic used to create a feeling of urgency and, in turn, a sense of value. This can be seen in many industries, including fashion, where brands create limited-edition items. It is also apparent in the world of business. For instance, when a leader is leading without being seen this creates a sense of urgency within the organization.

So how do we create value through scarcity?

Become like the Wizard from The Wizard of Oz. When a leader imitates the Wizard, working magic behind the scenes, giving everyone high expectations of being a really powerful and impressive character with an array of magical abilities, the absence creates urgency.

Removing oneself visually enhances mystical powers — which we know are not real, yet believed by those we lead. When the team knows they are being monitored and evaluated, by someone not present, there becomes a stronger sense of urgency within the team.

Be being less available to people, your perceived value becomes higher

When you limit your visibility and access, your time becomes more valuable to others.  They treasure the moment and don't waste a second of time. Also, they’ll take into consideration how:

• They treat your time and availability with respect.

• They respect that you don't need validation from others, which helps their perceived value increase.

• They feel important being in your presence. It provides self-worth.

• They are honest and more forthcoming, because they know this is their moment to shine.

Removing your presence, not your attention to detail, can have a huge impact.  

Thanks, Robert, for all the rules.