Use Absence to Increase Respect and Honor – Law 16 of 48 Laws of Power (Detailed Guide & Examples)

Scarcity creates value. Law 16 of The 48 Laws of Power states: “Use Absence to Increase Respect and Honor.” This principle is based on the idea that too much availability leads to decreased value, while absence makes people appreciate and desire you more.

By strategically withdrawing from certain situations, relationships, or environments, you create a sense of mystery and importance, making others crave your presence rather than take it for granted.

Understanding the Law

This law highlights the power of controlled absence. When someone or something is always available, people tend to undervalue it. However, when it becomes scarce, people realize its significance. This applies to personal relationships, leadership, and even business.

Key Takeaways:

• Scarcity creates value – The less available you are, the more people respect you.
• Avoid overexposure – Being too present can lead to familiarity, which breeds contempt.
• Make people miss you – Strategic absence increases appreciation and desire.

Historical Examples

1. Napoleon’s Strategic Retreats

Napoleon Bonaparte mastered the art of using absence to his advantage. By occasionally stepping away from politics and military engagements, he kept the French people in suspense and ensured they longed for his return.

2. Queen Elizabeth I’s Elusive Charm

Queen Elizabeth I maintained an aura of mystery by limiting her availability, especially in personal matters. This made her subjects and potential suitors admire and respect her even more.

3. Steve Jobs’ Departure from Apple

When Steve Jobs was ousted from Apple in 1985, the company struggled without him. His absence highlighted his importance, and when he returned in 1997, he was welcomed as a visionary leader.

Modern-Day Applications

1. Workplace & Career

• Avoid being overly available to colleagues or superiors to maintain your professional value.
• Step back occasionally to let your absence highlight your contributions.

2. Business & Marketing

• Limited edition products and exclusive launches create a sense of urgency and demand.
• Brands like Supreme and Rolex thrive on scarcity, making their products more desirable.

3. Personal Relationships

• Taking a step back in relationships can make others appreciate you more.
• Avoid overcommunication; let people miss your presence to increase affection and respect.

Pros and Cons of Following This Law

Pros:

✔ Increases respect and value – People appreciate you more when they notice your absence.

✔ Prevents overexposure – Being too available can lead to being taken for granted.

✔ Enhances mystique and desirability – Creates curiosity and interest in your presence.

Cons:

❌ Risk of being forgotten – If you disappear for too long, people may move on.

❌ May create resentment – Some might misinterpret absence as arrogance or neglect.

❌ Requires balance – Too much absence can harm relationships and opportunities.

How to Apply This Law Strategically

1. Control Your Presence

• Be available at critical moments but avoid unnecessary overexposure.

2. Create Anticipation

• Leave at the peak of your influence to make people long for your return.

3. Maintain a Strong Reputation

• Your absence should remind people of your value, not make them forget you.

Conclusion

Law 16 – “Use Absence to Increase Respect and Honor” – teaches that strategic withdrawal enhances your influence and desirability.

By making yourself less available, you can elevate your status, deepen appreciation, and maintain a sense of intrigue. However, balance is key—disappear too long, and you risk irrelevance. Use this law wisely to maintain respect and authority in every aspect of life.