Whether you’re trying to win student elections, climb the corporate ladder, or just survive family game night without getting betrayed, you need strategy. And who better to learn from than Michel Temer, a man who pulled off a political power move so slick, it should be in a Netflix drama.
Love him or hate him, Temer maneuvered his way into the presidency with precision, proving that power isn’t always about popularity, it’s about playing the game smart. Here’s how he did it and how you can apply these tactics to your own life.
1. Master the Art of the Quiet Move
Temer didn’t storm into power, he slid into it. When Dilma Rousseff faced impeachment, he was already in position, waiting silently. Sometimes, the best move is no move at all, just watch, listen, and strike at the perfect moment.
Life Lesson: Stop announcing your plans. Observe first, act later. Whether you’re negotiating a raise or plotting to take over your group project, timing is everything.
2. Build a Power Network (Even If People Don’t Trust You)
Temer wasn’t the most beloved politician, but he knew how to align himself with the right people. He played the long game, forming alliances that paid off when he needed them.
Life Lesson: Your network is your net worth. Befriend influencers, mentors, and even that annoying coworker who somehow knows all the office gossip. They might be your key to success.
Pro Tip: Want to up your networking game? Check out Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi. This book will teach you how to connect like a pro, even if you’re an introvert.
3. Make Yourself Indispensable
Temer positioned himself as the “necessary” leader, not the most popular, but the most stable. He knew that when chaos erupts, people look for someone who seems to have things under control.
Life Lesson: Become the go-to person in your field. If you’re the only one who knows how to fix the WiFi at work, congrats, you just made yourself invaluable.
4. Use Controversy to Your Advantage
Scandals? Temer had them. But instead of letting them sink him, he stayed calm and carried on. He let the storm pass and refocused on governing.
Life Lesson: If you mess up, own it and redirect the narrative. People have short attention spans, use that to your advantage.
5. Stay One Step Ahead of Your Competition
Temer anticipated moves before they happened. He saw Rousseff’s impeachment train coming and positioned himself to benefit.
Life Lesson: Always be thinking two steps ahead. If your boss asks for a report by Friday, hand it in Thursday. If you’re in an argument, have receipts ready.
6. Speak Less, Say More
Temer was not the loudest guy in the room. In fact, he had a reputation for being reserved and calculating, but when he spoke, people listened.
Life Lesson: Stop oversharing. Want to appear more powerful? Say less. Make every word count. When you finally speak up, people will actually pay attention.
7. Survive (Even When Everyone Thinks You’re Done)
Temer faced low approval ratings, protests, and legal troubles. And yet, he finished his term. That’s resilience.
Life Lesson: Never let failure define you. Adapt, pivot, and keep moving forward. Resilience beats talent every time.
Final Power Move: Get Yourself a Strategic Edge
If you want to master political and social strategy like Temer, you need the right tools. One of the best ways to sharpen your skills? Reading books that teach power dynamics. A must-have is The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene.
It’s basically a playbook for outmaneuvering rivals, in business, politics, and even friendships. Don’t just survive, thrive.
Grab your copy on Amazon now and start leveling up your strategy game today!
What’s Your Favorite Power Move?
Now, I want to hear from you, what’s the sneakiest, smartest, or most strategic move you’ve ever pulled off? Drop it in the comments below!