Coco Novak discusses The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene

We’re excited to chat with Coco Novak about The 48 Laws of Power. Check out our conversation below.

Coco, it’s so good to be connecting again, this time to discuss one of your favorite books. So – let’s jump right in, can you tell us about The 48 laws of Power – what should our readers know about this book?
The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene is a book that explores the dynamics of power, influence, and manipulation. It outlines 48 principles, or “laws,” that people can use to gain, maintain, or defend power in their relationships, careers, and personal lives. The laws are based on historical examples, case studies, and philosophical insights from figures such as Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, and various historical rulers, politicians, and military leaders.

Each law is designed to help individuals understand and navigate the complex social and power structures in their environments. Some of the laws encourage assertiveness, cunning, and strategic thinking, while others focus on the importance of controlling one’s emotions and managing relationships effectively.

Great, so maybe you can get into a bit more detail about why this book feels relevant to you and perhaps you can touch on any lessons or insights that resonated with you?
I feel that sometimes, when we get stuck in a work or personal situation, we struggle to understand where the issues are coming from. As biological and psychological beings, much has been researched about human psychology. This book can be seen as a guide to manipulation, but it can also serve as a resource to help you look up the relevant chapter and view the conflict from a different perspective.

What would you say were some of the most eye-opening or thought-provoking topics in the book?
I’m naturally quite chatty, which is fun and entertaining in a social setting, but not so much in a business one—especially when negotiating.

There’s a great chapter on ”Always say less than necessary.” Have you ever noticed the way “powerful” and influential people speak? Slowly, usually. This makes us believe they are calm, in control, and experts on the subject.

On the other hand, quick talking, a high-pitched voice, and a scattered delivery with too much information? That’s definitely not someone we’d take advice from anytime soon.

I have a tendency to overshare – something you can easily notice on my podcast! But that’s OK because we’re all learning.

Speaking publicly (even to your boss) can be a learned skill, especially if it doesn’t come naturally to you. And reading books like The 48 laws od power can help with that.

How did you discover this book?
To be fair, I think the book originally belonged to my ex. We had it on the shelf for a long time, and one day, I decided to flip through the Table of Contents. I thought, This seems really interesting. A friend of mine described the book as “brutal.” And yes, it is candid, it doesn’t hold back, and, yes, you could definitely use it to manipulate people. However, I think how much you take away from that part depends more on your own character.

Personally, I love personal development books. As humans, we all tend to gravitate toward our comfort zones – but there’s not much growth in that zone! This book pushes you to rethink your actions, encourages you to move beyond your limits, and, most importantly, teaches you to recognize when others are playing power games on you!

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