Win through your actions, never through argument: any momentary triumph you may think you have been through argument is really a Pyrrhic victory: the resentment and ill will you stir up is stronger and last longer than any momentary change of opinion. It is much more powerful to get others to agree with you through your actions, without saying a word. Demonstrate, do not explicate.
This is certainly one I believe in it firmly, although the slope can be quite slippery. Machiavellian tendencies may ultimately stifle a good plan unless properly executed. It is a real asset to possess big picture vision. If you’re personal capabilities exceed your adversaries, if you stand taller, your foresight and vision will be stronger. It is very easy to be placed on the defensive by loud and aggressive souls. I have personally weathered many a storm and ambush in my life. I don’t mind this too much because I recognize the catalysts behind it. Other agendas, ambitions, stupidity, ignorance, popularity, etc.
With patience and persistence, tides turn and lessons learned, our success rate increases. At some point in time, with careful nurturing, our adversaries identify themselves. I’m a patient person. A person who goes into battle cannot expect to remain unscathed. I do expect to route my enemies. Let the games begin.