I was a little worried that young people would think the only game was being political and manipulative when really the bigger game is being so good at what you do that nobody can argue with your results.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of focus on excellence in one's work rather than engaging in political or manipulative tactics.
Robert Greene suggests that rather than getting caught up in the political aspects of life or workplace dynamics, individuals, especially the youth, should dedicate themselves to mastering their craft. By achieving high levels of skill and producing undeniable results, one can rise above the need for manipulation, making their success irrefutable and commanding respect.
In practice
In a motivational speech to students about career paths.
In a society where the roles everyone plays are obvious, the refusal to conform to any standard will excite interest. Be both masculine and feminine, impudent and charming, subtle and outrageous. Let other people worry about being socially acceptable; those types are a dime a dozen, and you are after a power greater than they can imagine.
When you are trying to impress people with words, the more you say, the more common you appear, and the less in control. Even if you are saying something banal, it will seem original if you make it vague, open-ended, and sphinxlike.
The moment people feel they know what to expect from you, your spell on them is broken. More: You have ceded them power.
The future belongs to those who learn more skills and combine them in creative ways.
The Nihilistic Troll might pretend to be acting in the service of some cause or leader, but don't be fooled. The cause and their supposedly strong convictions are simply a way to justify and provide cover for their abusive behavior.
Only create associations with positive affinities. Make this a rule of life and you will benefit more than from all the therapy in the world.
Not even a collapsing world looks dark to a man who is about to make his fortune.
An idea isn't worth that much. It's the execution of the idea that has value. If you can't convince one other person that this is something to devote your life to, then it's not worth it.
Talent is a process, not a thing. Failure is not proof of an innate limit but rather is an indication of a skill we haven’t yet developed.
The goal of a successful trader is to make the best trades. Money is secondary.
Work while you have the light. You are responsible for the talent that has been entrusted to you.
A plan is always successful if the plan is good.
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