How to Apply the 48 Laws of Power in Modern Business

I’m a huge fan of Robert Greene’s books. He's meticulous in his research, and I love the entertaining way he presents his ideas.

His best book in my opinion is “The 48 Laws of Power”

Among Greene’s laws, certain principles stand out for their applicability in the business realm:

1. Win Through Actions, Not Argument (Law 9):

Replace endless pitches and debates with demonstrable results. Showcasing your achievements beats merely talking about potential.

For example: when you post on social media that you're going to do something great, like run a marathon, you sabotage your success.

This is because the positive feedback you get from friends and family triggers your brain's reward systems, releasing chemicals that feel as if you've already accomplished whatever it is you've posted about.

My interpretation of this rule is in essence — stop telling your friends about all of the exciting things you’re GOING to do and just do them!

2. Avoid the Unhappy and Unlucky (Law 10):

Your professional circle significantly influences your mindset. Align with positive, forward-thinking individuals to foster a conducive environment for success.

This is a lay-up. Cut the toxic people from your life.

3. Appeal to People’s Self-Interest (Law 13):

Tailor your propositions to address the needs and interests of clients and colleagues, thus enhancing your influence and effectiveness.

Simple — help those in your circle, but do it from a place of genuine interest, love, and support.

If you're doing it because you think that person can help you - you're doing it wrong.

4. Isolation is Dangerous (Law 18):

Networking is not just a buzzword; it’s a business lifeline. Collaborate, seek feedback, and stay connected. So go for that walk with a colleague, and enjoy a beer with the team. You'll thank me for it later.

We need people. Full stop.

5. Concentrate Your Forces (Law 23):

Focus drives results. So channel your resources effectively to achieve your goals.

If you have a Ferrari of a brain, and sometimes it spins out and wrecks - I get it. It's time to take a pit stop and reassess what's important and focus on that one thing -- because as Confucious says:

“The man who chases two rabbits catches neither.”

If you haven’t read Greenes's book, I strongly encourage you to pick up a copy. It’s a big book — so you may want to consider downloading Audible a nd getting the audiobook.

Keep up the good work,

Chris