704: Robert Greene | The Emotions Behind Success, Mastery, and Power

17 snips

Jul 28, 2022

Robert Greene, acclaimed author of bestsellers like 'The 48 Laws of Power,' shares insights on the emotional qualities that underpin success. He discusses the significance of mentorship, social intelligence, and keen observation for mastering skills. Greene encourages listeners to reconnect with their unique passions, highlighting that it's never too late for a career pivot. He emphasizes the value of apprenticeships in personal development and the importance of networking for achieving one's goals. This thought-provoking conversation is a treasure trove for aspiring masters.

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ANECDOTE

German Fluency Through Immersion

Jordan Harbinger was an exchange student in East Germany, initially disliking it.
He became fluent in German by immersing himself with locals, proving immersion is key.

INSIGHT

48 Laws as a Mirror

Robert Greene's "48 Laws of Power" reflects the reader's own nature, not just manipulation tactics.
Those who are already manipulative don't need the book; it helps naive people.

INSIGHT

Life's Task

Everyone is born with unique inclinations, a "life's task," often lost due to external pressures.
True success comes from reconnecting with this innate passion, crucial for mastery.

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The Laws of Human Nature

Robert Greene

In 'The Laws of Human Nature,' Robert Greene delves into the complexities of human behavior, identifying 18 laws that govern our actions and motivations. Drawing from historical figures such as Pericles, Queen Elizabeth I, and Martin Luther King Jr., Greene provides insights into how to detach from emotions, master self-control, develop empathy, and see beyond people's masks. The book is designed to help readers become better judges of character, manage their thought patterns, and influence others more effectively. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's own flaws to make better decisions in personal and professional life[2][3][4].

The 48 laws of power

Robert Greene

In 'The 48 Laws of Power', Robert Greene and Joost Elffers synthesize three thousand years of the history of power into 48 laws. These laws are derived from the philosophies of Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, and Carl Von Clausewitz, as well as the lives of influential figures such as Henry Kissinger and P.T. Barnum. The book provides tactics, concepts, and lessons on how to achieve and maintain power, emphasizing prudence, confidence, and self-preservation. Each law is illustrated with historical examples and is designed to help readers understand and navigate the dynamics of power in various aspects of life, including work, social hierarchies, and politics.

The Daily Laws

Robert Greene

This book by Robert Greene provides a daily dose of wisdom, drawing from his previous works and including new material. Each day features a concise lesson and a 'Daily Law' that serves as a prescription for navigating life's challenges. The book is organized monthly around themes such as power, seduction, persuasion, strategy, human nature, toxic people, self-control, mastery, psychology, leadership, adversity, and creativity. Greene emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with one's early passions and maintaining a realistic and disciplined attitude towards life and work.

Mastery

Robert Greene

In 'Mastery', Robert Greene argues that mastery is not an innate talent but a skill that can be developed through a rigorous process. The book outlines several key stages: finding your life's task, undergoing an ideal apprenticeship, finding the right mentor, acquiring social intelligence, and fusing intuitive with rational thinking. Greene draws on the lives of historical and contemporary masters such as Mozart, Einstein, and Temple Grandin to illustrate his points. He emphasizes the importance of deep practice, self-directed learning, and the ability to read and navigate social dynamics. The book challenges the conventional notion of genius as a genetic gift and offers practical steps for anyone to achieve mastery in their chosen field.