"کسی که روی مردم بنا می‌کند بر روی گل بنا می‌کند"

Relying heavily on the whims and opinions of people can be precarious. Essentially, putting your trust in the fluctuating preferences of others is like trying to build a house on unstable ground. It’s unreliable and can change direction with the slightest shift, leaving you on shaky footing.

Now, let’s take a trip back to the Renaissance. This quote comes from Niccolò Machiavelli, a guy who knew a thing or two about political strategy. He lived in a time when power dynamics were constantly shifting, and leaders had to be cunning to stay on top. Machiavelli saw firsthand how fickle public opinion could be and how dangerous it was to depend solely on the favor of the masses.

Think about a modern-day example—remember when Netflix decided to split its DVD and streaming services into two separate companies? They called the DVD service "Qwikster," and it was a disaster. Customers were furious. The stock price plummeted. It was clear that Netflix had misjudged public sentiment. They had built their strategy on the assumed support of their user base, but the ground shifted beneath them. They quickly backpedaled, but the damage was done.

So how can you apply this wisdom? First off, it’s crucial to have a strong foundation. Whether you’re leading a team, starting a business, or just navigating life, don’t rely solely on the approval of others. Have clear principles and a solid plan. Yes, listen to feedback—it's valuable—but don’t let it be the only thing you base your decisions on.

Here’s a relatable scenario: Imagine you’re planning a big family reunion. You send out a survey to decide on the date, the venue, and the menu. Everyone has different opinions. Some want it at the beach, others prefer a mountain lodge. The vegan cousins are at odds with the barbecue enthusiasts. If you try to make everyone happy, you’ll twist yourself into knots and end up with a mishmash of plans that satisfy no one.

Instead, take the lead. Choose a venue that you know can accommodate most needs, pick a date that works for the majority, and plan a menu with a variety of options. By having a clear plan and making decisions based on what you know will work best overall, you’re building on solid ground. Sure, not everyone will be 100% happy, but the event will be a success because it’s well-organized and thoughtful.

In our coffee shop chat, I’d lean in and tell you this: People are unpredictable. Trends come and go, opinions change with the wind. If you anchor yourself too firmly to the shifting sands of public favor, you’ll find yourself constantly scrambling to adjust. But if you build on a solid foundation—your values, your knowledge, your strategic vision—you'll have a steady base to stand on, no matter how the tides of opinion change.

So next time you’re faced with a decision, take a step back. Think about your core values and long-term goals. Sure, consider what others might think or want, but don’t let it be the cornerstone of your strategy. That’s how you build something that lasts—that’s how you avoid the mud.