"To be successful, keep looking tanned, live in an elegant building (even if you’re in the cellar), be seen in smart restaurants (even if you nurse one drink), and if you borrow, borrow big."

This quote is all about the art of appearances and the importance of perception in the game of success. It's essentially saying that the way others perceive you can be just as important, if not more so, than your actual circumstances. The idea is that success often hinges on creating and maintaining an image that others admire or aspire to, sometimes regardless of the actual reality behind that image.

Historically, this advice aligns with the kind of thinking popularized during the 1980s and '90s, especially in the realms of business and finance where appearances could make or break deals. Think Wall Street, where looking the part was half the battle; it wasn't just about what you had but how you presented yourself.

Now, let's dive into a real-life example—take the life of Jordan Belfort, the infamous Wolf of Wall Street. Belfort started out relatively modestly, but he quickly learned that throwing lavish parties, driving fancy cars, and living in a luxurious home could attract investors and clients. Even when his actual business practices were dubious at best, the image he cultivated drew people in. He created an aura of success that was almost magnetic. This isn't to say you should follow in his ethical footsteps, but the principle of how he leveraged appearance to drive his success is crystal clear.

So, how can you use this wisdom in your own life? Start by focusing on the small details that others notice first. Dress well, even if it's just for a coffee meeting. You don’t have to wear designer brands—just make sure your clothes are clean, fit well, and suit the occasion. When it comes to where you live, you don’t need to own a penthouse. An elegantly decorated studio apartment can be just as impressive. The key is to make the most out of what you have. Attend industry events and network in places where influential people gather. You don't need to spend a fortune—sometimes just one cocktail is enough to keep you in the room and part of the conversation.

Imagine you're at a party where you don’t know anyone. You're standing at the edge of the room, feeling out of place, but then you catch sight of someone who just exudes confidence. They're well-dressed, they're chatting easily with others, and they seem genuinely engaged. Now, you find yourself wanting to know this person, right? That's the power of perception. They're successful, or at least they sure look it, and that draws you in.

The takeaway here is that by focusing on how others perceive you, you can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. It's not about being fake; it's about presenting the best version of yourself. So, next time you’re thinking about how to make a splash in your career or personal life, remember that sometimes it's not just about what you have but how you show it. Dress the part, act the part, and soon enough, you might just become the part.