Don't explicate, demonstrate (045)

Happy Monday.

Today I would like to share another idea from The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

Law #9: Win through your actions, never through argument.

Any victory gained through argument is but a momentary triumph. It is much more effective to get others to change their mind and agree with you through demonstration. After all, we all know that actions speak louder than words.

This week, when you find yourself in a disagreement with someone - whether your friend, spouse, or boss - do not argue, simply show them why you are correct without saying a word. This can win them over to your opinion much more permanently, painlessly, and without stirring up any ill-will or resentment.

An argument meant to change peoples mind, even if successful, is likely to make them feel stupid. Avoid argument at all costs.

If need be, placate your superiors by obeying but without changing anything. If you are confident that what you have done is superior, make it look like you have made a change like they wished, exclaim "wow, much better now", and let them take the credit for the 'improvement'. Sometimes it may be necessary to merely put on a facade of making changes to satisfy them.

Words have a slippery nature. Actions are concrete. Remember this for both professional and social settings.

“Tell people who you are without saying a word.” ― Abhijit Naskar

“If your actions don't live up to your words, you have nothing to say.” ― DaShanne Stokes

Have a great week,

Lucas