THREAD: Machiavellianism From My Father

The first place I learned cunning was from my father.

He grew up poor, and managed to go from rags to riches by starting a business.

The main applications of cunning I witnessed him execute?

-Charming Customers, so that they'd buy product from his business rather than a competitor's

-Persuading Bankers, to lend capital to start and expand his business

-Zero Sum Negotiation with Suppliers, getting multiple suppliers in the same room, and getting them to compete against one another on price

-Law 46: NEVER FLAUNT YOUR WEALTH. If you are rich, then by all outward appearances seem to be just one more middle class average Joe.

This will shield you from envy, backstabbing...and lawsuits.

Charm was always his most critical tool...

Charm Customers: when they like you, they are more likely to come to your business rather than a competitor's

Charm Bankers: when they like you, they are more likely to lend to you and they are more inclined to give you low interest rates

Charm Suppliers: when they like you, they are more inclined to give you discounts (low prices).

Note: Details have been intentionally changed, for the sake of obscuring his identity.

Also, he met my mom via cold daygame approach when he was broke and had no impressive job title, so you know he is a G

Mom believed in him when he had nothing and was nothing.

Try to marry a woman who feels the same way about you.