So much of power is not what you do but what you do not do — the rash and foolish actions that you refrain from before they get you into trouble. - Robert Greene

Understand this: society wants to assign you a role. As soon as you accept that role, you’re doomed.

Overt flattery can be effective but has its limits; it is too direct and obvious and looks bad to other courtiers. Discreet flattery, tailored to the insecurities of your target, is much more powerful.

At your birth a seed is planted. That seed is your uniqueness. It wants to grow, transform itself, and flower to its full potential. It has a natural, assertive energy to it. Your Life's Task is to bring that seed to flower, to express your uniqueness through your work. You have a destiny to fulfill. The stronger you feel and maintain it — as a force, a voice or in whatever form — the greater your chance of fulfilling this Life's Task and achieving mastery.