The Magnetic Pull of Suspense
Keep them in suspense
The Magnetic Pull of Suspense involves creating a bond between oneself and others, and then using suspense and unpredictability to motivate and manage them. This strategy requires creating a sense of distance and mystery, and using rewards and punishments to keep others in suspense.
- Create a bond between oneself and others
- Use suspense and unpredictability to motivate and manage others
- Create a sense of distance and mystery
- Create a bond between oneself and othersCreate a sense of connection and shared purpose between oneself and others. This can be done by showing empathy, sharing a common goal, and demonstrating a sense of vulnerability.Pro tipUse storytelling and emotional appeals to create a sense of connection.WarningDo not try to manipulate or coerce others into following you.
- Create a sense of distance and mysteryCreate a sense of distance and mystery by holding oneself back and being unpredictable. This can be done by being scarce, using silence and secrecy, and being unpredictable in one's actions.Pro tipUse the element of surprise to keep others on their toes.WarningDo not be too distant or mysterious, as this can lead to confusion and mistrust.
- Use rewards and punishments to keep others in suspenseUse rewards and punishments to keep others in suspense and motivated. This can be done by being generous and fair, but also unpredictable and demanding.Pro tipUse the element of surprise to keep others guessing.WarningDo not be too harsh or unfair, as this can lead to resentment and rebellion.
Napoleon's use of suspense
Napoleon, the French military leader, used his personal rebukes and rewards to create a sense of suspense and motivation among his soldiers.
OutcomeNapoleon's soldiers were highly motivated and loyal, and he was able to achieve great victories on the battlefield.
The use of suspense in marketing
Marketers use suspense and unpredictability to create a sense of excitement and anticipation among consumers.
OutcomeConsumers are more likely to engage with and remember the brand.
Being too predictable
Being too predictable and consistent can lead to boredom and complacency among others.
Being too distant or mysterious
Being too distant or mysterious can lead to confusion and mistrust among others.
Being too harsh or unfair
Being too harsh or unfair can lead to resentment and rebellion among others.
This strategy is inspired by the story of Napoleon, who used his personal rebukes and rewards to create a sense of suspense and motivation among his soldiers.
Source · BOOK
The 33 Strategies of War