The Cleopatra Effect

"Only one image of Cleopatra survives—a barely visible profile on a coin— but we have numerous written descriptions. She had a long thin face and a somewhat pointed nose; her dominant features were her wonderfully large eyes. Her seductive power, however, did not lie in her looks—indeed many among the women of Alexandria were considered more beautiful than she. What she did have above all other women was the ability to distract a man. In reality, Cleopatra was physically unexceptional and had no political power, yet both Caesar and Antony, brave and clever men, saw none of this. What they saw was a woman who constantly transformed herself be- fore their eyes, a one-woman spectacle. Her dress and makeup changed from day to day, but always gave her a heightened, goddess-like appearance."
-The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene

I've got a thing for the women who draw men toward them like flies to light, because it never seems to be because they are so intensely beautiful. Women fail to realize that charm and mystery are more hypnotizing than a pretty face. While men are indeed visual beings, their desire for the chase overwhelms their desire for arm candy. Pretty women are plentiful, but a woman who owns her charm is indeed a rare commodity.

I picture Cleopatra as this bangin' bodied red bone woman (only because I'm red-boned). Full lips, blunt cut bangs one day, sick weave the next, Indian hair only. I literally picture a young Iman from "Remember the Time." I see her king trying to rule an empire but working hard to try and entertain her so she doesn't leave his side. Without Cleopatra, all the land of the world would have no meaning, all because she was just that chick. She's got this mentality that floats from Greece to Australia, while her man's just trying to keep up with Rome. Cleopatra doesn't need a companion, but because she is that extraordinary she maintains a loyal following of men in awe of her actions. Could a blank-minded, attractive woman ruin empires? Probably not. Why allow society to create boundaries for you, when freedom and personal evolution can grant you such power?

Law 25 -- Re-create Yourself:: Do not accept the roles that society foists on you. Re-create yourself by forging a new identity, one that commands attention and never bores the audience. Be the master of your own image rather than letting others define if for you. Incorporate dramatic devices into your public gestures and actions – your power will be enhanced and your character will seem larger than life.

Guesswork is the winning formula in everything. The Cowboys are using the same game plays, and the competition can defeat them because of their predictability. We cannot be standout women if people can anticipate our next steps. If you show people your spades, they will find a way to trump you.

Apply the Cleopatra effect in your life. You may surprise yourself.