Trust is the only game worth playing - Lessons from Machiavelli

Entrepreneurship
No items found.

“It is far better to earn the confidence of the people than to rely on fortresses.”  - Niccolo Machiavelli
“There is such a gap between how one lives and how one should live that he who neglects what is being done for what should be done will learn his destruction rather than his preservation.” - Niccolo Machiavelli

There are a few specific books that capture human nature in its essence, summarizing important lessons on how people do deals, transact and find ways to evolve as a collective.

The Prince, by Machiavelli, is one of these books that I recommend every founder ought to read. If you are building a business that is bound to change the world, you will face the same levels of conflict and lessons that a prince in Italy would have faced in Machiavelli’s time.

This Yale professor has an interesting view, considering Machiavelli’s writings a diluted version of Aristotle/Plato’s republic concepts, but applied to northern Italy in the 14th century.

What I appreciate about his teachings is the sincerity around how dangerous it is to create a new business that challenges or improves the status quo. High-output leaders are adaptable, so they round themselves with better people and are resolute in their actions.

Other blog posts

Today's episode is with Michael Sidgmore. Michael has spent his career as a financial technology investor and operator focused on financial services.

Read more

As we get ready for the first close of our new fund, I'll start being a bit more public about the incredible team we have assembled for this mission. 

Read more
Inner peace for your spirit

Your inner-peace should not be dependable on anybody. The fast track to inner peace is to meditate and treat others with love and empathy.

Read more

Receive new essays as soon as they're published

You won't receive spam and you can unsubscribe at any time