Pablo Escobar is often remembered as one of history’s most notorious drug lords, a figure synonymous with power and infamy.
However, beneath the criminal legacy lies a remarkable set of strategies that contributed to his extraordinary success.
Despite the controversial nature of his actions, Escobar’s approach to achieving and maintaining his empire offers valuable insights.
I’ve uncovered a list of twelve strategies that reportedly fueled his rise to prominence.
In this blog post, we’ll explore these rules in detail, uncovering lessons that transcend their original context and providing actionable advice for anyone striving for success in their own lives.
Rule 1
“I’m not a rich person. I’m a poor person with money.”
It’s not just about accumulating wealth; it’s about who you are and your values.
Stay humble and grounded, and never let money define your character.
This rule emphasizes the importance of humility and self-awareness, particularly in the context of success and wealth.
Pablo Escobar, despite his vast fortune, viewed himself through the lens of his origins rather than his material wealth.
The statement reflects the notion that wealth should not alter one’s sense of identity or values.
The lesson here is that success, especially financial success, should not lead to arrogance or an inflated sense of self-worth.
Remaining grounded ensures that wealth is a tool rather than a defining characteristic.
It serves as a reminder to stay connected to one’s core values, even when external circumstances change dramatically.
In essence, this rule advocates for humility in the face of success and the importance of personal integrity over material accumulation.
Rule 2
“Sometimes you have to lose to win.”
Embrace failure and setbacks as learning opportunities.
They may hurt in the moment, but they’ll make you stronger and wiser in the long run.
This rule underscores the inevitability of failure on the path to success and the importance of viewing setbacks not as defeats but as valuable lessons.
Escobar’s statement highlights the strategic understanding that losses are sometimes necessary for long-term victories.
In life and business, setbacks are often unavoidable, but they provide critical opportunities for growth and self-improvement.
By embracing failure, individuals develop resilience, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of their craft or mission.
These experiences allow for reflection, refinement of strategies, and preparation for future challenges.
In summary, this rule advises that short-term losses are not the end of the journey but a crucial part of achieving ultimate success.
The ability to learn from and adapt to failure is what leads to long-term gains.
Rule 3
“Only those who went hungry with me and stood by me when I went through a bad time at some point in life will eat at my table.”
Cherish your true friends who stick with you through thick and thin.
This rule emphasizes the value of loyalty and the importance of recognizing those who stand by you during difficult times.
Escobar’s statement reflects the belief that true relationships are forged in adversity, not in moments of success or abundance.
It is a reminder to cherish and honor the people who remain supportive through challenges, as they are the ones who genuinely care about your well-being.
In both personal and professional life, those who show loyalty during tough times often demonstrate qualities such as trustworthiness, reliability, and sincerity.
When success is achieved, it is important to share the fruits of that success with these individuals, as they played a crucial role in helping you overcome adversity.
This rule advises that, in moments of success, you should remember and reward those who supported you when times were tough.
It speaks to the significance of loyalty and the deep bonds formed through hardship.
Rule 4
“The day I don’t have enemies is the day I’m not doing anything.”
Push yourself out of your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to make waves.
Remember, if you’re not making enemies, you’re not making progress.
This rule highlights the idea that success often comes with opposition, and having enemies can be an indication that you are making significant strides or challenging the status quo.
Escobar’s statement suggests that complacency leads to stagnation, while pushing boundaries and taking bold actions will inevitably attract critics or adversaries.
Progress and innovation often require making difficult decisions that may upset others.
Whether in business or personal life, stepping out of your comfort zone to pursue ambitious goals can lead to resistance from those who feel threatened or uncomfortable with change.
However, this opposition can be a sign that you are on the right path, disrupting the norm and driving meaningful progress.
In essence, this rule encourages you to embrace discomfort and criticism as natural components of growth and success.
If you are not encountering resistance, you may not be pushing yourself hard enough to reach your full potential.
Rule 5
“The purpose of war is peace.”
Sometimes conflict is necessary to achieve a greater good.
Stand up for what you believe in, even if it means facing resistance.
This rule reflects the paradoxical idea that conflict, though undesirable, is sometimes necessary to create lasting peace or to achieve a greater good.
Escobar’s statement implies that difficult, and at times confrontational, actions may be required to resolve deeper issues or bring about meaningful change.
In the context of success, this rule suggests that standing up for your values, principles, or long-term goals may involve facing opposition, tension, or conflict.
These challenges, while uncomfortable, are often essential to overcoming obstacles and creating a more stable, harmonious situation in the future.
Avoiding conflict at all costs can lead to unresolved issues and stagnation, whereas addressing problems directly can lead to growth, resolution, and peace in the long run.
In summary, the rule advises that conflict should not be feared but approached strategically when it serves a higher purpose.
By standing firm in your beliefs, even in the face of resistance, you can ultimately pave the way for more lasting and meaningful success.
Rule 6
“I don’t want to be good. I am beginning to suspect that the world is good.”
Cultivate a positive mindset and focus on the good in life.
You’ll be surprised at how much beauty and happiness you’ll find!
This rule suggests a shift in mindset from striving to be inherently “good” to recognizing the inherent goodness and positivity in the world around us.
Escobar’s statement reflect an evolving realization that focusing on the positive aspects of life can influence one’s perspective and actions.
In life and on the path to success, cultivating a positive mindset allows you to approach challenges with optimism and gratitude.
Rather than being consumed by negativity, frustration, or doubt, focusing on the beauty and goodness in life can enhance your sense of fulfillment and motivation.
This mindset shift can also improve relationships, decision-making, and resilience when faced with difficulties.
The rule encourages embracing a perspective that looks for the positive in every situation.
By doing so, you invite more happiness and contentment into your life, allowing success to come from a place of inner peace and joy rather than stress or dissatisfaction.
Rule 7
I can replace things, but I could never replace my wife and kids.
Family always comes first.
Cherish your loved ones and prioritize their well-being over material possessions.
This rule highlights the irreplaceable value of family, reminding us that personal relationships should come before material success.
While wealth and possessions can be replaced, the bonds with loved ones are unique and priceless.
Prioritizing family ensures lasting happiness and stability, far more valuable than material gains.
Rule 8
“My riches are my family and my children.”
Invest in the emotional and intellectual wealth of your family.
Their growth and success will be your greatest legacy.
This rule emphasizes that true wealth lies in the well-being and development of family.
Investing in the emotional and intellectual growth of loved ones enriches their lives and creates a meaningful legacy.
The success and happiness of your family become the most valuable and enduring form of wealth.
Rule 9
“There can only be one king.”
Be the master of your own destiny.
Take charge of your life and strive to be the best version of yourself.
This rule underscores the importance of taking control of your own life and destiny.
Being “the king” of your own realm means striving to be the best version of yourself and leading your life with purpose and authority.
It’s a call to embrace personal responsibility and leadership in shaping your future.
Rule 10
“All empires are created of blood and fire.”
Embrace struggle and adversity; they will forge you into a stronger, more resilient person.
This rule acknowledges that significant achievements and empires often come with challenges and hardships.
Embracing struggle and adversity is crucial for personal growth and resilience.
These experiences can strengthen your character and prepare you for future successes.
Rule 11
“In this business, you either sink or swim or you don’t last.”
Adapt and overcome obstacles, or risk getting left behind.
Be resourceful and stay ahead of the game.
This rule highlights the necessity of adaptability and resilience in any competitive environment.
To succeed, you must navigate challenges effectively and continuously innovate.
Failure to adapt can result in being outpaced by others, so staying resourceful and proactive is key to enduring success.
Rule 12
“I supply more heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana than anybody else in the world. I have a fleet of submarines, airplanes, trucks and boats.”
Well, maybe not this one. Don’t break the law, kids!
This rule is a reminder that while some rules may reflect a certain mindset or strategy, it is crucial to adhere to ethical and legal standards.
Success should never come at the expense of breaking the law or engaging in harmful activities.
Focus on achieving your goals through lawful and ethical means.
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