Political Exit After Victory

Overview

A survival procedure for advisors and generals after achieving great success, based on Fan Li's departure from Yue.

Steps

1. Recognize the danger - "When birds are gone, the good bow is hidden; when the cunning rabbit dies, the hunting dog is cooked"
2. Assess your superior's character - "Goujian has a long neck and bird beak - can share hardship, cannot share pleasure"
3. Resign formally - Cite past service and mission completion
4. Expect resistance - Superior may offer to share power or threaten punishment
5. Maintain resolve - "The ruler gives orders, the subject follows his own will"
6. Leave completely - Take portable wealth and depart without returning

Warning Signs to Exit

• Mission accomplished
• Superior becoming suspicious or jealous
• Others being eliminated