In the early 2000s, Robert Greene, now a renowned author, faced significant criticism, silence, and doubt. Struggling to find his footing as a writer, he was often told that his ideas lacked value and that his work would never succeed. His unique style and unconventional approach were met with skepticism and rejections, and he was frequently dismissed by publishers and peers alike. Despite these setbacks, Greene persisted, driven by a deep conviction in his vision and what he believed he could achieve.

Greene's determination paid off with the publication of The 48 Laws of Power, a book that distills historical and philosophical insights into practical strategies for achieving success. Initially, the book faced resistance, but it gradually gained traction, resonating with a broad audience and establishing Greene as a respected author. His success was not just a personal victory but also a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief.

Robert Greene’s perseverance in the face of criticism and doubt is inspiring. Much like Greene, I faced a similar struggle when working on my project. I was pouring my energy into making it work as I envisioned it, and it was gaining traction. Initially, I had supporters who encouraged me to continue the work. However, as my work started to gain a wider audience and attention, some of these supporters turned their backs on me. They even went so far as to steal my work and present it as their own.

It's particularly frustrating when those who once supported you now try to undermine your success. They might believe that by withdrawing their support, ignoring your contributions, or outright stealing your work and ideas, they can diminish your achievements. They think that without their validation, you will falter and fail. But this couldn't be further from the truth.

People who engage in such behavior are often driven by jealousy and insecurity. Those who attempt to undermine your success often reveal more about their own insecurities and fears. They fear your success because it highlights their own shortcomings. They envy your creativity and determination because it underscores their lack of vision and effort. They hope that by claiming your ideas as their own and leveraging their larger platforms, they can erase your contributions and reap the rewards without the effort.

Greene's book "The 48 Laws of Power" offers valuable guidance in understanding yourself and others.
One law from Robert Greene's "The 48 Laws of Power" that resonates strongly in such situations is Law 36: Disdain things you cannot have: ignoring them is the best revenge. This law suggests that by ignoring those who attempt to bring you down, dismiss your work, or steal your ideas, you rob them of the power they seek to gain from your reaction. Instead, focus on your work and let your success speak for itself.

Another relevant law is Law 15: Crush your enemy totally. While this might sound harsh, it underscores the importance of being thorough and decisive in your actions. Be clear on what you want to do. By ensuring that your work is unmistakably superior and well-recognized, you leave little room for imitators to gain a foothold.
Your work is unique; why stop?

Lastly, Law 6: Court attention at all costs advises that making your presence felt and your work visible is crucial. By consistently showcasing your talent, sharing your work, your story, your effort, and maintaining a strong presence, you ensure that your contributions are acknowledged and respected.
Show your work and be patient.

The fact is, the journey of a creator can be lonely and challenging. It’s essential to stay true to your vision and persevere, even when faced with criticism or indifference. Surround yourself with people who genuinely support your work, but be prepared to stand alone if necessary. Use the negativity as fuel to drive your passion further.

Remember, your success is a testament to your hard work and dedication. By staying focused and resilient, you can overcome the challenges and inspire others along the way. Just like Robert Greene, let your work shine through and make a lasting impact. Keep pushing forward, and let your creativity and determination lead the way. To those who think they can silence or steal your ideas, let your unyielding success be your loudest response.

Reflect on a time when you faced criticism or indifference. How did you respond? How can you use the lessons from Robert Greene’s 48 Laws of Power to navigate future challenges? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

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Coming to RailsWorld?

Check out my series, Ahmed’s Unofficial RailsWorld Guide to Toronto! This first-of-its-kind guide is perfect for RailsWorld attendees. I write about the history of the amazing venue, Evergreen Brickworks, take you on a ride from the airport to the city, hotels and around, and explore Toronto's best spots to eat, visit, and have fun. Whether you're attending the conference or just visiting the city, you'll find something valuable.

Yours,

Ahmed Nadar