Law-1: Never Outshine The Master — The 48 Laws of Power
I used to point out people’s mistakes so that they are aware of them and can improve their lives. I thought people should appreciate me because I was helping them, but I was wrong. People often got angry at me instead of feeling grateful. At the time, I didn’t understand why — they saw me as criticizing, not helping.
Here’s a law that helped me understand people: almost everyone dislikes criticism. Once you point out their mistakes, they rarely take it well; they often think you’re trying to make them look dumb.
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If you want to win someone over, never ever criticize them. Don’t try to appear smarter than them. People naturally dislike those who point out mistakes while showing off their intelligence. If you point out your boss’s mistake or try to outshine them, you’re going to get into trouble. You have to accept this truth: you shouldn’t outshine your master.
A very simple rule to win people over is to make them feel comfortable around you. How? Don’t judge them, don’t point out their mistakes, and don’t try to look smarter than them.
Yes, sometimes you should tell people about their mistakes or give feedback — but only if that person is not your master. That person should be your employee, child, or someone who really admires you. The same goes for showing your skills and talents — you should share them with someone who has more skills than you.
For example, in an interview, you should present the best version of yourself. But in a meeting with your boss or colleagues, you shouldn’t point out their lack of knowledge. Even if you have a brilliant idea, share it in a way that doesn’t make them feel like idiots.
The key is simple: make others feel respected and comfortable, and you’ll earn their trust and cooperation.
