Save 10 Years of Your Life with 12 Hidden Rules

There is a paradox that always exists on the map of global prosperity: among the top 10 richest people in Southeast Asia, 8 are of Chinese descent (despite accounting for only about 5% of the population). Their commonality lies not only in their calculation skills but also in a set of “hidden rules.” The story of Dong Van Hong – Alibaba’s “logistics queen” – is the most vivid proof of applying these rules to change one’s fate. From a 30-Year-Old Receptionist to a Reversal of History At that time, Jack Ma made a seemingly “pie-in-the-sky” promise: allocate her 0.2% of shares and tell her to stay persistent; when the company goes public, that small amount will be worth a fortune. Dong Van Hong waited. In 2004 and 2006, she asked her boss when the company would go public, only to be told “soon.” Many would think they were being deceived and would leave. But she chose to stay silent, dedicate herself, work meticulously, and be absolutely proactive. Then, 14 years later, when Alibaba was listed in New York, that 0.2% stake transformed the receptionist into a millionaire, gradually rising to a senior vice president position within the group. Hong embodies the survival philosophy of the Chinese. Here are 12 hidden rules that help them always stay ahead in the game of life:

1. Maintain Inner Balance: Calm Mind, Respected Life You don’t need to act aggressively to show authority. Truly capable people only need to remain unshaken by external circumstances. Stay consistent and never bend your opinions just to please others.
2. Set Clear Boundaries Without boundaries, people will assume you’re lenient. Cultivate the habit of speaking briefly and calmly: “I’m not working now,” “I won’t take on this task.” Refusing doesn’t require apologies or lengthy explanations.
3. The More You Seek Approval, the More You Are Disregarded Desiring recognition is a sign of weakness. Don’t try to please others hoping for pity. Focus on doing your job well; respect will come naturally.
4. The 3-Step Principle: Gentle Reminder – Direct Reminder – Withdraw When someone crosses the line, don’t argue or provoke. Apply the three steps. If they still don’t change, withdraw your energy and presence. Silence and walking away are the harshest punishments.
5. Show Up with Value, Not Just to Make an Appearance Never always be ready or available when called. In business and life, the easier something is to access, the less valuable it appears. Maintaining some distance is a way to elevate your self-worth.
6. The One Who Explains Too Much Is Weak Say one clear statement and be done. Repeating or explaining only invites others to underestimate you. Silence often holds greater power than words.
7. “Sorry” Is a Very Expensive Word Use it at the right moment; it shows character. Use it wrongly, and it diminishes your value. If you’re not at fault, never apologize just to keep peace.
8. Use Words That Create Authority Immediately eliminate vague phrases like “maybe,” “probably,” “up to you.” Instead, say: “My opinion is,” “I choose,” “I disagree.” A confident tone breeds power.
9. Be Consistent in Behavior Show strength today, be weak and compromising tomorrow, and partners won’t know whether to respect or undermine you. Consistency builds an unbreakable wall of respect.
10. Never Chase After Anyone Social dynamics are simple: when you chase, they run. When you stand firm and shine, they will stop and come to you.
11. The Power to Create Weight No one dares to underestimate someone with deep knowledge, broad vision, strict discipline, and unpretentious confidence. Investing in yourself is a business that never loses.
12. The Energy of Self-Respect Ancient wisdom says: “A person who does not respect themselves will not be respected by others.” How you speak, walk, work, and treat yourself determines how the world treats you. A person with self-worth naturally forces others to adjust their attitude. Core Lesson: Don’t rush to demand rights before you’re truly ready. The 12 hidden rules do not teach you tricks but how to protect your energy and build inner strength to seize great opportunities. Among these 12 rules, which do you need to practice most to become more confident in your career?