Assume formlessness.
In Robert Greene’s “48 Laws of Power” book, this is the last law in the book. Perhaps it’s recency bias, but it’s the most rememberable right now. This law exemplifies the importance to be fluid and flexible in one’s plans. Don’t be so rigid in your strategy that your opponent already sees your next move(s).
By taking shape, by having a visible plan, you open yourself up to attack. […] The best way to protect yourself is to be as fluid and formless as water; never bet on stability or lasting order. Everything changes.
Wow, that last sentence. What a powerful message to throw out into the universe for this year.
Be like mercury where you can adapt to any situation, given the circumstances. If you are too rigid like the Spartans were, you may win the battle against Athenians; however, you will lose the long game due to the inability to adapt to society and its rapid change.
I finally finished this book after receiving it as a Christmas gift in 2018. I tried to remain consistent and conquer one law per day, but as you can see — that didn’t happen.
