“There are master manipulators amongst us, who practice subterfuge and seduction to obscure their true intention. They’re hell-bent getting what they want by ignoring or harming the desires of others. They use charm, persuasion, coaxing, trickery, misdirection, gossip and even their appearance to hunt down fame, money and even friends in high places.” - Robert Greene .
Let’s get real: It never ceases to amaze me how many people use manipulation to get ahead.
Why do people manipulate?
Because largely, it does work. In the short term.
For some, it builds incredible wealth and privilege, even for several decades where they enjoy the spoils of their manipulation.
But in time, from Wall Street barons, to Presidents, Kings, and the conniving neighbour next door, the towers built on the foundation of manipulation, inevitably and spectacularly collapse.In our world today where money, jockeying for position, promotion and fame is the name of the main game, manipulators are rife.
The problem is that in time they are found out, because truth always prevails.True power lies in your ability to mix in genuine heartfelt care for others with a canny wisdom of knowing when and how to speak and act when it comes to managing your brand.
Cultivation is the opposite of manipulation.
Cultivation means feeding yourself with the right knowledge, experience and qualities.
Cultivation is not just self-focused, it’s others focused.
When you truly champion and believe in both yourself and others, and make sure you’re serving the needs of others humbly and with genuine concern.
The legacy rewards you reap will truly be priceless.
Insight Inspiration:
So who do you want to be?
A manipulator with a short-term ticket to fame and fortune?
Or a long-term powerful cultivator of others; who sows good things in themselves and others and lives this life with a long-term legacy and the respect of their fellow men and women?
The choice is yours.
