Control The Options: Get Other’s To Play With The Cards You Deal – Law 31 of 48 Laws of Power (Complete Guide & Examples)

Law 31 of The 48 Laws of Power states: “Control the Options: Get Others to Play with the Cards You Deal.” This law emphasizes the importance of creating choices for others, but only those that benefit you. By controlling the options available to others, you maintain power over the situation without them realizing it.

Understanding the Law

When you give someone the illusion of choice, they believe they are making decisions on their own. However, the choices you present are carefully crafted to push them towards the outcome you desire. This allows you to influence the behavior of others without directly forcing them into anything.

Key Takeaways:

• Control the options, control the outcome – By giving others limited options, you steer them towards a preferred decision.
• Create false freedom – Let others think they have power when in reality, they are still playing your game.
• Influence without appearing manipulative – People are less likely to resist when they think they have a say.

Historical Examples

1. The Roman Empire’s Bread and Circuses The Roman leaders controlled the masses by offering them two choices: free bread or entertainment in the form of gladiatorial games. While the people believed they had a choice, the rulers had already controlled the outcome to maintain power.
2. Napoleon’s Strategy Napoleon Bonaparte often controlled the options available to his generals, ensuring they made decisions that would lead to his desired military outcome. He carefully framed the situation in such a way that even when his commanders thought they had a choice, they were essentially forced into his plan.
3. Henry Ford’s Car Choices Henry Ford, when creating the Model T, offered customers the option of any color they wanted—so long as it was black. This gave the illusion of choice while still maintaining complete control over the production process.

Modern-Day Applications

1. Business Negotiations In negotiations, offer limited choices that work in your favor. For example, instead of simply saying “Do you want to sign this deal?” you can offer, “Would you prefer to sign for 12 or 24 months?” Both options work for you, but the other party feels empowered to make the decision.
2. Leadership and Management As a leader, you can guide your team by presenting options that lead to outcomes that align with the team’s goals. For example, if you want to direct team efforts in a particular direction, offer choices that all lead to the same desired outcome.
3. Personal Relationships In relationships, control the narrative by offering choices that lead to harmony. For example, “Would you like to go out for dinner or stay in tonight?” Both answers suit you, but your partner feels as though they are making a decision.

Pros and Cons of Following This Law

Pros:

✔ Provides control without confrontation – You get what you want without forcing anyone’s hand.
✔ Increases your influence – People feel they are in charge, which can make them more cooperative.
✔ Gives you strategic advantage – By setting the options, you ensure the outcome is in your favor.

Cons:

❌ Can lead to resentment – People may eventually feel manipulated if they realize the illusion of choice.
❌ Risk of backlash – If others catch on to your tactic, it can diminish trust and harm your reputation.
❌ Requires finesse – If done poorly, it can backfire and make you seem too controlling.

How to Apply This Law Strategically

1. Craft Your Options Carefully Always present choices that lead to the same desired outcome. For instance, in a business deal, offer two payment options that work equally well for you.
2. Make People Feel in Control Give others the illusion of freedom while subtly steering them in the direction you want. This can be done by framing your choices in a way that makes the outcome seem inevitable.
3. Understand the Psychology of Choice People will be more willing to choose from options they perceive as having been provided thoughtfully. Make sure the choices you offer are framed positively and leave little room for resistance.

Conclusion

Law 31 – “Control the Options: Get Others to Play with the Cards You Deal” – is a strategic way to manipulate decision-making. By carefully selecting the choices available to others, you can control the outcome without appearing overly dominant. This law allows you to remain influential while providing others with the illusion of control. When applied skillfully, it gives you a psychological edge, making others feel empowered while you retain the reins.