If you want to be powerful in life you have to enjoy the process. You have to get pleasure out of making the thing that you're making. There has to be that kind of purpose behind it. If your purpose is simply gaining power, if that becomes your end in life then you end up sort of destroying yourself because you lose the sense of detachment that's very necessary.
Robert GreeneWhen the snipe and the mussel struggle, the fisherman gets the benefit. Ancient Chinese saying
Robert GreeneDo not accept the roles that society foists on you. Re-create yourself by forging a new identity, one that commands attention and never bores the audience. Be the master of your own image rather than letting others define if for you. Incorporate dramatic devices into your public gestures and actions – your power will be enhanced and your character will seem larger than life.
Robert GreeneI exercise a lot and I love it. I'm fine. But you know, I'd like to be alive in ten years, that'd be my first priority.
Robert GreeneAny titles, money, or privilege you inherit are actually hindrances. They delude you into believing you are owed respect.
Robert GreeneAll great leaders since Moses have known that a feared enemy must be crushed completely. (Sometimes they have learned this the hard way.) If one ember is left alight, no matter how dimly it smolders, a fire will eventually break out. More is lost through stopping halfway than through total annihilation: The enemy will recover, and will seek revenge. Crush him, not only in body but in spirit.
Robert Greene