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Have you ever tried so hard to please someone? To be helpful, only to be told it’s not enough? To give your persistence, consistency, and diligence, yet still feel inadequate? This tests your credibility.
There was a day I took my master’s tasks as my own. I filled his cups, watched his plates, and even put food on his table. The master had flaws, but I ignored the wisdom of the elders. My efforts earned me fame in the eyes of the people—so much that the master himself sought to destroy me. He accused me of making him look useless. In the end, he imprisoned me.
This aligns with Law 1 of The 48 Laws of Power: "Never Outshine the Master." The book speaks volumes about credibility. But here’s the truth: Credibility—being trusted, competent, reliable, and authentic—doesn’t always matter in the bigger game.
Take Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV’s finance minister. He threw lavish parties in the king’s honor, using money approved by the king himself. Yet, because Fouquet became the center of attention, Louis XIV accused him of theft and imprisoned him. Fouquet was credible, but not wise. The master’s jealousy is inevitable. Humility, in such moments, is survival.
In my own story, I served my supervisor with loyalty and respect during my finals. I carried her bags, volunteered as her PA, and amplified her influence—even enduring anger and insults from peers. One leaked a video of me, but I stood firm. Though scared, I remained loyal. My supervisor saw my value but never felt threatened because I never outshone her. She became an icon, and I worked with her until I moved on.
The Lesson?
"Never outshine the master" is wise, but never at the cost of your mental health, emotional peace, or self-worth. Execute this law with calm precision. Inferiority may creep in, but handle it with foresight and accuracy.
As Machiavelli knew: Credibility alone won’t protect you.
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I'm Ariyo Joseph Ayobamidele — nature observer, anatomy learner, science thinker. I write and draw to process the world. Heading into medicine and surgery. Self-sponsored through Hive and block chain technologies. My word for you is "Curiosity causes growth — and your support adds value." 🔬✍️