---
title: "Re-creating yourself"
description: "The steps Greene gives for building a persona that commands attention."
canonical: https://tomsharman.com/bookshelf/48-laws-of-power/re-creating-yourself/
updated: 2026-11-03
---

# Re-creating yourself

> The steps Greene gives for building a persona that commands attention.

Robert Greene's framework, from 48 Laws of Power, pp. 282 to 292.

Framework 12 of 27 from [48 Laws of Power](https://tomsharman.com/bookshelf/48-laws-of-power/index.md) by Robert Greene. Category: Content and packaging.

## The steps

1. **Become self-conscious.** See yourself as an actor and control your appearance and emotions.
2. **Create a memorable character.** Build a distinctive character that stands out, like Lincoln's homespun president.
3. **Use drama over time.** Control suspense, rhythm and timing so events unfold at a tempo you choose.
4. **Add dramatic gestures.** Use a beau geste and craft your entrances and exits.
5. **Avoid overacting.** Rely on grace and stillness more than on overdoing the part.
6. **Play many roles.** Adapt your mask to the situation and stay protean.

## Where it comes from

From chapter: LAW 25, pp. 282–292

Do not accept the roles society hands you, and forge a new identity that commands attention. Julius Caesar was the first public figure to link power and theatre, with spectacles and the dramatic crossing of the Rubicon, while Aurore Dudevant became the male persona George Sand to make a living from writing. Greene calls self-creation a Promethean task and gives steps: become self-conscious about your acting, create a memorable character like Lincoln's homespun image, use suspense and timing as Roosevelt did in his Hundred Days, use gestures like a beau geste, avoid overacting, and learn to play many roles. He says there is no reversal.

## The animation

24 seconds, 4:5, no sound.

- MP4: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/48-laws-of-power/re-creating-yourself.mp4
- MP4, dark: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/48-laws-of-power/re-creating-yourself-dark.mp4
- Still: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/48-laws-of-power/re-creating-yourself.png
- Still, dark: https://tomsharman-downloads-006143767029.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/downloads/bookshelf/48-laws-of-power/re-creating-yourself-dark.png