7th Law of Power – “Get others to do the work for you, but always take the credit.”

From The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

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The 7th law from The 48 Laws of Power emphasizes a key principle in strategic leadership and manipulation: leverage the talents, knowledge, and efforts of others while positioning yourself as the one who reaps the benefits. This law is not about being lazy, but about being smart with energy and influence.

📌 Core Idea:

This law teaches that you can advance faster, gain recognition, and preserve your time and energy by using others’ skills. Whether it’s borrowing ideas, outsourcing work, or letting others do the groundwork, the goal is to make yourself appear as the mastermind.

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🔑 Key Concepts:

Efficiency Over Effort

Instead of reinventing the wheel, learn from the work others have already done. History, research, and inventions can be used to your advantage—what matters is how you apply it.

Use Hidden Hands

You may work behind the scenes or use skilled individuals to execute tasks for you. But publicly, ensure the credit lands with you.

Keep Yourself at the Center

In group projects or collaborative environments, make yourself the face of success—even if the work came from multiple contributors.

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🧠 Historical Examples:

Thomas Edison

Edison is praised as a genius inventor, but many of his inventions were built by a team of researchers. He took the credit, built his reputation, and controlled the narrative.

Artists and Rulers

Many kings and emperors funded architects, painters, and scientists, taking the glory of their achievements as part of their legacy.

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⚠️ Caution: The Dark Side

This law can easily become exploitative if used without ethics. Stealing credit openly may backfire and lead to resentment, exposure, or sabotage. It's best to mask your moves, reward others modestly, and maintain your image as the true leader.

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🧩 Application in Modern Life:

In College: Use group studies or collaborate on projects, but know how to present the final result to showcase your leadership.

At Work: Delegate tasks smartly, oversee the output, and ensure your name is associated with the result.

In Business: Hire talent, acquire ideas, or use consultants—but be the visible brain behind the operation.

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✅ Summary:

The 7th Law teaches you to think strategically. It’s not always about how hard you work—but how cleverly you manage people and perception. Power often goes not to the one who labors the most, but to the one who appears to be in control.
“Never do yourself what others can do for you.” – Robert Greene

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