Chapter 1: Start with a Plan
The first chapter of Robert Greene’s book brings to light just how important planning is to successful Machiavellian maneuvering. Going into any situation with a planned strategy can be the difference between success and failure, as without a roadmap to desired goal, the result of any kind of discourse is often chaotic and unpredictable. The key takeaway from this chapter is that having foresight and being able to accurately assess any situation can lead to success and enables one to take calculated risks.
For example, consider the case of an executive chef, planning to open a new restaurant. In this scenario, having a plan in place will help guarantee that all pieces of the puzzle are fit together, and that all the necessary steps are in place before opening day. For example, the chef would need to plan out where the restaurant will be located, determine the menu, look into production costs and labor costs, and plan out marketing strategies she will use to generate interest in the restaurant. All of these steps being planned in advance increases the probability of success and reduces the possibility of failure.
Chapter 2: Think Strategically
The second chapter focuses on the importance of having an overall strategy to guide your Machiavellian actions. The key takeaway from this chapter is that having an overarching theme or principle driving your decisions allows you to make decisions quickly and decisively which will give you an edge on opponents.
For example, a client and their lawyer may be in the midst of a dispute. Here, the lawyer can use Machiavellian maneuvers to reduce risk and achieve a favorable outcome for their client. By having a plan of attack in place and a clear goal in mind, the lawyer can effectively strategize his way to a positive resolution, and dictate the terms of the agreement in favor of their client. Having a full understanding of the opposing party’s interests and resources, the lawyer will be able to use them to his own advantage, and come out ahead in the resolution.
Chapter 3: Focus on Advantage
The third chapter discusses the importance of understanding what advantages one has and using them to their fullest potential. Robert Greene talks about using all of the resources at one’s disposal and exploiting the weaknesses of those around them. He emphasizes the importance of having advantages build upon each other in order to maximize their effectiveness.
For example, consider a person who wants to get ahead in their field. Here, having a strategic plan in place that focuses on gaining experience, connections, and financial advantages can be a major advantage in the job market. For example, the person could invest in networking by attending industry events, start a side business in the same field as their main profession, or look into taking up further educational opportunities in the same field in order to gain knowledge and expertise. By having a plan in place and actively working towards gaining the necessary advantages, one can be better positioned for success.
Chapter 4: Build Your Influence
The fourth chapter delves into the importance of building influence. Robert Greene argues that in order to succeed, it is necessary to have control and power over those in your environment. Through building relationships, establishing trust, and developing an understanding of the dynamics of one’s environment, gaining influence in a Machiavellian manner is possible.
For example, consider an up and coming musician who is looking to gain influence in the music industry. Here, the musician can start by reaching out to people in the industry, establishing relationships, and gaining their trust. From there, the musician could start working a number of different parties, such as promoters, record labels, and other industry professionals, to get their music out to the world. By having influence over these people, the musician is more likely to get noticed and have their music heard.
Chapter 5: Know When to Act
The fifth chapter focuses on knowing when the right time is to act. Robert Greene argues that one must have patience and adaptability to wait until the time is right to execute their Machiavellian plan. The key takeaway from this chapter is to have a full understanding of the situation in order to make smart and informed decisions based on timing.
For example, consider a person working in the stock market. Here, having an understanding of the market and the timing of trades is essential to successful maneuvering. The person must have the patience and insight to wait until the time is ripe to make trades, and when to move on from each investment in order to maximize profit. By having the necessary knowledge of the market, the person is better equipped to make the right moves at the right times.
Chapter 6: Be Prepared for Anything
The sixth chapter takes a look at the importance of being prepared for any situation. Robert Greene advocates for having contingencies in place for any kind of eventuality that may arise. He stresses the need to remain flexible and be able to maneuver one’s way out of any kind of circumstance.
For example, consider an employee who is looking to distinguish themselves from their colleagues. Here, the employee must prepare for any kind of situation and be able to quickly think on their feet. The employee should be prepared to take on any challenge or task that may arise, and have the ability to think strategically and come up with solutions. By being ready for anything, the employee is in a better position to make the move and stand out from the crowd.
Chapter 7: Understand the Human Condition
The seventh chapter looks at the importance of understanding people’s motivations and emotions. Robert Greene explains how one must have an understanding of the situation at hand and be aware of the motivations and feelings of others. Knowing what drives and moves people will enable one to effectively manipulate and gain leverage in any situation, allowing them to gain an advantage.
For example, consider a real estate developer who is trying to gain favor with a local politician in order to get a development project approved. Here, the real estate developer must understand the mayor’s motivations and feelings in order to influence them. By reading into the mayor’s values and utilizing them, the developer can craft their narrative to be more persuasive to the mayor and ultimately gain favor with them. Knowing what people care about and what moves them to action is key to successful Machiavellian strategy.
Chapter 8: Anticipate Resistance
The eighth chapter discusses the importance of understanding one’s opponents and anticipating any resistance they may have. Robert Greene argues that being aware of one’s obstacles and having solutions in place in order to overcome them is necessary for success. Preparing for any kind of resistance ahead of time will allow for better maneuverability and give one an advantage that will help guide them to success.
For example, consider an entrepreneur who is trying to launch a new product. Here, the entrepreneur must anticipate any kind of resistance that may arise in the form of competition, regulatory hurdles, budget constraints, or any other kind of opposition that may come their way. By being prepared for any potential resistance and having plans in place to overcome them, the entrepreneur will be better able to achieve their goals and launch their product.
Chapter 9: Find Balance
The ninth chapter focuses on finding balance between Machiavellian tactics and remaining ethical. Robert Greene argues that while Mach
