48 Laws of Power – Chapter 7: Get Others to Do the Work for You, but Always Take the Credit
“Use the wisdom, knowledge, and legwork of other people to further your own cause. Not only will such assistance save you valuable time and energy, it will give you a godlike aura of efficiency and speed.”
— Robert Greene, The 48 Laws of Power
Time is limited.
Effort is draining.
But power? Power comes from results — not necessarily labor.
This law is about leveraging the talent and resources of others while maintaining the appearance of control and genius.
The Core Message
Greene says those who understand how to delegate, borrow, or even steal ideas (without shame) will move faster than those who insist on doing it all themselves.
This law isn't about laziness — it’s about strategy.
In power games, being the originator isn’t always rewarded. Being the name associated with success is.
Historical Example: Thomas Edison
Edison is often remembered as a great inventor.
But Greene points out that much of his success came from hiring others to do the technical work, then branding it as his own.
He had a team of researchers — but it was his name that lived on.
Edison didn’t chase credit.
He built a system that assigned it to him.
How the Law Works
Delegate Without Detaching
Let others execute ideas, but keep yourself at the center of credit and control.Acquire and Adapt
Borrow ideas, refine them, present them as your own — Greene is blunt here: originality is optional in the pursuit of power.Present Results, Not Process
Most people don’t care how you did it — only that you did. Focus on outcomes, and make sure your name is attached.
Greene’s Warning
If you’re too obvious in using others, resentment builds.
Greene advises subtlety — praise your sources occasionally, but retain the spotlight.
And always protect yourself from those trying to do the same to you.
When This Law Backfires
If you're exposed as someone who steals ideas or exploits labor, it can damage your reputation.
Greene warns to cloak your moves in diplomacy — build alliances, give partial credit, or shift focus when necessary.
Closing Reflection
In power plays, doing everything yourself is admirable — but inefficient.
If you can orchestrate the work of others and still be seen as the visionary, you multiply your influence.
Let others lift the weight. You lift the crown.
#48LawsOfPower
#Law7
#LeverageGenius
