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6 lessons
TodayHistoryWhat Happens When You're No Longer Needed?
A lesson from Fan Li
Yue's victory changed its advisers' circumstances. Fan Li's departure invites a closer look at your own role.
TodayHistoryHow Do You Recognize True Talent?
A lesson from Liu Bang
Xiao He's recommendation of Han Xin reveals the judgment and risk involved in giving potential real responsibility.
TodayHistoryWhen Should You Question Loyalty?
A lesson from the imperial court
Yue Fei's recall and prosecution raise a difficult question: when does a conflict over authority become an accusation of betrayal?
TodayHistoryThe Danger of Confusing Confidence With Competence
A lesson from Zhao Kuo
Zhao Kuo's defeat raises a harder question: what evidence justifies giving someone responsibility?
TodayHistoryWhy Great Leaders Need People Who Disagree
A lesson from Wei Zheng
A debate over imperial ceremonies reveals how criticism can change the questions behind a decision.
TodayHistoryWhen Friends' Paths Diverge
A lesson from Guan Ning and Hua Xin
A cut mat and a later recommendation raise a harder question: how much of a friendship must change when your paths diverge?