Machiavelli's 9 traits of a leader

“The Prince” is a 16th century classic book on power, leadership and statecraft that author Niccolo Machiavelli dedicated to a member of Florence’s ruling Medici family. According to Machiavelli, the “prince” or wise leader: 

1) Is perceived to be wise, just, and governed by higher moral laws.

2) Uses force or violence only if it is in the best interests of the state. Is never wantonly cruel, which attracts hatred (those who hate are well motivated to kill you or have you removed).

3) Is never profligate with state funds. Better to be tight with money at first, then receive gratitude for dispersing it when appropriate, than to spend lavishly and bankrupt the state, which soon leads to your downfall.

4) Understands that politics is as much about image as it is substance, and acts accordingly.

5) Has a handful of close advisers or friends who are allowed to speak their minds without fear. Is careful of flatterers, who inevitably provide incorrect pictures of the truth.

6) Consults widely, but is always seen to be making up one’s own mind. Vacillation quickly erodes faith in the leader’s rule.

7) Backs what they say by force. A leader may be good or effective in all respects, but the perception of weakness is fatal to anyone in power.

8) Strives by all their actions to inspire a sense of their greatness and goodness: “Nothing makes a Prince so well thought of as to undertake great enterprises”.

9) Carefully chooses their heroes, and incorporates those heroes’ best features into their own self. Leaders admit that their greatness rests on the shoulders of those who have come before.