Mastering Humility: The Art of Never Outshine the Master
Always make everyone around you feel comfortable and superior. In your attempt to satisfy and impress them, do not overdo it by displaying your abilities; else, you may instill worry and uneasiness. Make your superiors appear smarter than they are, and you will reach the pinnacle of authority. Never Outshine the Master.
In other words, don’t overestimate or exaggerate your abilities, otherwise you’ll end up with worry and insecurity. Always make your superiors or opponents believe that they are superior and allow them to outperform themselves. Make them think more about you, and you will earn more influence among the people.
It is a mistake to imagine that flaunting your abilities will win your master’s attention or devotion. You will be replaced by someone less appealing, smarter, and dangerous than you.
Also, no one wants someone who is superior or better than them. As a result, you will miss out on situations where you could have more authority or rule over anything else. If your thoughts are more innovative than your master’s, attribute them to him in as public a way as possible. Make it apparent that your advise is simply an echo of his.
If you are naturally more gregarious and generous than your master, be careful never outshine the master or not to become the cloud that hides his light from others. He must appear as the sun, radiating force and splendor and commanding everyone’s attention.
In any of these circumstances, concealing your strength is not a sign of weakness if it ultimately leads to dominance. Allowing others to outshine you keeps you in control, rather than becoming a victim of their insecurities. This will all come in handy when you desire to overcome your lower status. If you never outshine the master or can help your master shine even brighter in the eyes of others, you are a godsend and will be promoted immediately.
