Law 41: Avoid Stepping into a Great Man’s Shoes: The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
If you succeed a great man or have a famous parent, you will have to accomplish double their achievements to outshine them. Do not get lost in their shadow or stuck in a past not of your own making: Establish your own name and identity by changing courses. Slay the overbearing father, disparage his legacy, and gain power by shining in your own way.
The Example:
One famous example of this law in action is the story of John F. Kennedy. Kennedy was the 35th president of the United States, and he was the son of Joseph P. Kennedy, a wealthy businessman and diplomat. Joseph Kennedy was a powerful figure in his own right, and he had a lot of influence over his son. However, John F. Kennedy was determined to make his own mark on history. He did not want to be known as “Joe Kennedy’s son.” He wanted to be known as John F. Kennedy, the president of the United States.
Kennedy did not shy away from his father’s legacy. He acknowledged his father’s accomplishments, but he also made it clear that he was his own man. He changed course from his father’s political views, and he pursued his own agenda. He also distanced himself from his father’s business dealings, which had been the subject of some controversy.
Kennedy’s success as president can be attributed in part to his decision to avoid stepping into his father’s shoes. He was able to establish his own identity and create his own legacy. He was not afraid to break from his father’s past, and he was able to achieve great things on his own.
Of course, this is not always easy. It takes courage to break away from the past and forge your own path. But if you are willing to do it, you can achieve great things.
Conclusion
The 41st law of power is a powerful one. It can help you to establish your own identity and create your own legacy. However, it is important to use this law wisely. If you do not, you may end up getting lost in the shadow of a great man.
