Why Most People Fail at Power | #69

By Armaan Athwal

Today's Overview:

• How Ashoka the Great transformed from a ruthless conqueror into a leader of wisdom and self-discipline

• Self-mastery is what separates those who rise and those who fall

• Quote of the day

The King Who Conquered Himself

Most conquerors rule by force. Few rule by example.

One of the greatest to ever do both was Ashoka the Great, emperor of the Maurya Dynasty. His reign stretched across nearly all of India, making him one of history’s most powerful rulers. But what set him apart wasn’t just his military genius, it was what he did after victory.

Early in his rule, Ashoka was ruthless. He expanded his empire through war, crushing enemies with overwhelming force. His most brutal conquest, the Battle of Kalinga, left thousands dead. The rivers ran red, and for the first time, Ashoka saw not just victory, but devastation. He realized something few conquerors ever did. The hardest battle isn’t against others. It’s against yourself.

So he changed.

He abandoned senseless wars and ruled with wisdom instead of fear. He embraced Buddhism, advocated peace, self-discipline, and growth. He built schools, hospitals, and roads, making sure his empire thrived, not just survived. His edicts, carved into stone, didn’t just demand obedience, they taught his people how to live with virtue and purpose.

And this is where most people get it wrong about strength.

Self-mastery is the foundation of all lasting power. Anyone can force their way to the top, but without control over themselves, they crumble. The biggest reason people fail? They focus on conquering the world before they’ve conquered their own mind.

Think about it:

• How many people chase success but self-destruct because they can’t handle discipline?

• How many leaders collapse under their own ego, unable to pivot like Ashoka did?

• How many of us know what we should do, but let impulse win over wisdom?

Ashoka’s transformation wasn’t weakness, it was proof of real strength. He didn’t let his past define him. He saw reality for what it was and adjusted. No excuses. No attachment to his old ways. He chose to be better.

That’s the lesson most never learn.

You don’t need another productivity hack. Another book on success. Another shortcut. You need self-mastery, the ability to step back, see your own flaws, and actually do something about them.

Because in the end, the real battle isn’t out there.

It’s against yourself.

Quote of the Day

“The gods do not wish to judge us for what we did in past lives, but for what we will have wrought in this. We are what we think now, what we do now.” - Ashoka Maurya