1. Trust Sparingly: In business, be selective with trust. Trust is earned over time and should be based on proven reliability, as misplaced trust can lead to significant setbacks.

2. Always Keep Leverage: Maintain a position of strength in negotiations by having leverage. Ensure you bring something valuable to the table and understand what motivates the other party.

3. Control Information Flow: Avoid sharing excessive details about your strategies or weaknesses. Information is power, so share only what is necessary to protect your interests.

4. Know When to Walk Away: Recognize when a deal or partnership isn’t beneficial. It’s better to cut losses early than to stay in a toxic situation that drains resources and morale.

5. Manage Emotions in Business: Emotions can cloud judgment and lead to rash decisions. Stay calm under pressure, and don’t let emotions dictate your responses, especially in negotiations.

6. Appear Strong, Even When Vulnerable: Maintaining an appearance of confidence and control, even in tough times, can help deter competition and protect your position.

7. Learn to Outsmart, Not Outmuscle: Strength in business often comes from intelligence and strategic moves, not brute force. Outsmart competitors by anticipating their actions and planning accordingly.

8. Cultivate Loyalty Wisely: Loyalty can be a powerful asset, but it must be fostered with care. Show respect and fairness to team members, but be cautious with those who only show loyalty when it’s convenient.

9. Anticipate Risks and Plan for Contingencies: Always have a backup plan. Anticipate potential risks and prepare accordingly to navigate unexpected challenges effectively.

10. Play the Long Game: Think beyond immediate gains and focus on long-term success. Be strategic in building relationships and making decisions that will sustain growth over time.

This book emphasizes cunning and strategy, encouraging managers to think critically and remain adaptable in high-stakes environments.