Business is a fucking jungle. And no, not the romantic version where everyone helps each other, builds “common values” and develops an “ecosystem”. That’s a myth they sell to the naive so they can be exploited more easily. The truth is, it’s a ruthless battlefield where everyone fights for themselves. No friendships, no “partnerships”, just a naked, brutal fight for influence, money and control.
Want to know what's really going on in the business world? Look at people at meetings, conferences, parties—it's all one big show. Suits, forced smiles, "genuine" interest in your story. And then? They stab you in the back if it pays off.
Welcome to the fancy dress party
Everyone in this world wears a mask. Everyone. A CEO who talks about “mission and values” is really just trying to squeeze as much as possible out of a company before he can pump up its value and sell a block of shares. A business partner who says he wants a “long-term relationship”? Great – until he finds someone who gives him a better deal.
Why is that? Because money is everything. There is no loyalty, no morality, only interests. If something doesn't generate money, it means it doesn't make sense. If someone doesn't give you benefits, then they're redundant. People can talk crap about altruism, business ethics and "human approach", but let's not kid ourselves - if the moment comes when they have to choose between you and their own wallet, you already know what they'll choose.
Predators and prey
In the business world, there are two groups of people: predators and prey. You either hunt or you are eaten. Everything else is an illusion.
You know that feeling when you start working with someone and you think, “Oh, this guy seems cool, maybe he really wants to do something cool”? And then a few months later you realize he’s screwed you over? Welcome to reality.
People are selfish. Not because they are "bad" - it's just the rules of the game. Everyone wants as much as they can for themselves, and if you don't understand that, then you are cannon fodder in this game. Don't count on anyone giving you a head start. Don't count on fair play.
Deceived by our own illusions
The worst thing is that people still delude themselves. They believe that you can "build together", "create value" and "play for the long term". It's not that it's completely impossible - but for it to work, you have to be aware that at any moment someone can decide to screw you.
Most businesses end in arguments. Partners betray each other. Associates play the fool. Customers are loyal only when you have the lowest price. Every relationship is good only as long as there is no conflict of interest.
And that's why so few people succeed. Because most people don't realize what they're playing at. People want to believe in an illusion instead of accepting the brutal reality.
How to win this game?
You have two options:
- Continue to believe in fairy tales – and end up as a sucker who everyone takes advantage of.
- Understand the rules and play smart – be the predator, not the prey.
That doesn't mean you have to be a son of a bitch. It's not about destroying people for the sake of it. But you have to be aware that if you don't take care of yourself, no one will. Don't believe their words - look at their actions. Don't trust people until you check their intentions. And if someone tells you that "money isn't the most important thing" - check how much they have in their bank account.
Business is war. Don't be naive.