Be extra careful in the work environment with those who like to
Be extra careful in the work environment with those who like to maintain their position through charm and being political, rather than getting things done. They are very prone to envying and hating those who work hard and get results. They will slander and sabotage you without any warning.
Hearken, O children of the ages, to the words of Robert Greene, who speaks with the voice of vigilance and wisdom: “Be extra careful in the work environment with those who like to maintain their position through charm and being political, rather than getting things done. They are very prone to envying and hating those who work hard and get results. They will slander and sabotage you without any warning.” Here lies the timeless teaching that human ambition can be cloaked in guile, and that discernment, caution, and awareness are the shields of those who seek to act with integrity.
In the chronicles of old, the elders observed that the halls of labor are often fraught with hidden currents. Those who wield charm and political cunning may rise not through merit, but through manipulation, envy, and stealth. Greene reminds us that the true measure of power lies in getting things done, in tangible effort and results, not in the subtle arts of flattery or deceit. To thrive in such a work environment, one must see clearly, act deliberately, and guard both reputation and spirit.
The origin of this wisdom is ancient, found in the writings of philosophers, generals, and statesmen who studied the interplay of human ambition. Across courts, councils, and guilds, it was known that envy and sabotage lurk where competence meets duplicity. Those who achieve through genuine labor provoke jealousy in those who seek advantage through political maneuvering. To endure and succeed, the wise must be vigilant, discerning allies from rivals, and recognizing that appearances can mask hidden intent.
O seekers, understand that the path of honor is not without peril. The work environment may conceal adversaries, ready to slander or sabotage those who shine through diligence and merit. By cultivating awareness, maintaining focus on getting things done, and guarding the heart against envy and malice, one can navigate the treacherous currents of ambition while preserving integrity and vision.
Let this teaching endure, children of the future: value hard work and tangible results above the illusions of charm and politics. Beware those who guard position through manipulation, for their envy and hatred may strike without warning. In all endeavors, let vigilance, discernment, and perseverance guide your path, turning adversity into insight and challenge into strength.
In this eternal truth, the mortal learns that honor and accomplishment are forged through effort, integrity, and resilience. The cunning of the envious may shadow the halls of labor, but the steadfast heart, devoted to work hard and get results, walks unbowed. By discerning the currents of envy, avoiding deceit, and focusing on tangible deeds, the soul rises resilient, the spirit fortified, and the path of integrity becomes a beacon for generations to follow.
If you wish, I can also craft a more poetic, ceremonial version, where the dynamics of charm, politics, envy, and hard work are depicted as a sacred battlefield of the spirit. Would you like me to do that?
NLNguyen Ngoc Lan
This is such an important warning. Have you ever had to deal with someone like this at work? It’s difficult to know who to trust in an environment like that. How do you protect yourself from their potential sabotage while still getting things done and maintaining a professional demeanor? It seems like it requires a fine balance of being cautious yet focused.
NBngoc bui
It’s sad how true this is. It can be hard to work hard when you see others skating by on charm and political maneuvering. But how do you rise above it? If you focus solely on your work, you might risk becoming a target. How can you protect yourself while staying true to your work ethic?
SDsang dang
Robert Greene has a very cynical take here, but it does feel accurate. I’ve seen this kind of behavior in several workplaces, where those who talk the talk are more valued than those who actually deliver. What’s your take on dealing with these people? Should we call them out, or just stay under the radar and continue doing good work?
TCVo tan cong
This resonates so deeply with my own experiences at work. It’s tough when you’re working hard and producing results, but people like this manage to gain favor because of their charm and manipulation. How do you deal with it without feeling like you're constantly walking on eggshells? And is there any way to confront these types of people without it backfiring?
HNNguyen Hoang Nam
I’ve definitely encountered people like this. It’s almost as if their main goal is to stay in power, no matter how much they actually contribute. The hardest part is dealing with the manipulation without letting it affect your work. Do you think it’s possible to stay focused and avoid getting dragged into office politics, or is it just a reality we have to navigate?