In his book, The Wisdom of Psychopaths: What Saints, Spies, and Serial Killers Can Teach Us About Success, author Kevin Dutton argues that psychopathic traits are not always negative and that, in fact, some of the most successful people in the world exhibit many of the same traits as psychopaths. Dutton defines a psychopath as someone who is egocentric, charming, manipulative, callous, unemotional, and impulsive.

While most people associate these traits with criminals and other unsavory characters, Dutton makes the case that many successful entrepreneurs, CEOs, military leaders, and others in positions of power also share these qualities. He argues that the very qualities that make psychopaths so dangerous can also be harnessed for good. In the right context, he says, psychopathic traits can lead to success.

In his book, The Wisdom of Psychopaths: What Saints, Spies, and Serial Killers Can Teach Us About Success, author Kevin Dutton argues that psychopathic traits are not always negative and that, in fact, some of the most successful people in the world exhibit many of the same traits as psychopaths. Dutton defines a psychopath as someone who is egocentric, charming, manipulative, callous, unemotional, and impulsive. While most people associate these traits with criminals and other unsavory characters, Dutton makes the case that many successful entrepreneurs, CEOs , military leaders ,and others in positions of power also share these qualities. He argues that the very qualities that make psychopaths so dangerous can also be harnessed for good. In the right context , he says ,psychopathic traits can lead to success . For example , he points to British Prime Minister Winston Churchill , who exhibited many psychopathic traits but was also one of the greatest leaders of our time . Churchill was egocentric and charming , two qualities that allowed him to be an effective leader . He was also manipulative and callous , traits that he used to get his way in politics . Dutton argues that, in the right context , these qualities can be harnessed for good .Dutton argues that Churchill’s impulsiveness , his willingness to take risks , and his unemotional nature were key to his success . He also cites the example of former U.S. president Theodore Roosevelt , who was known for his boldness and his ability to stay calm in the face of crisis . These are just two examples of how psychopathic traits can be used for good . In the right context , they can be an asset , not a liability .

Dutton argues that Churchill’s ability to remain calm in the face of crisis , his lack of empathy for his enemies , and his single-minded focus on victory were key to his success . Similarly , Dutton cites the example of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs , who was notoriously difficult to work with but was also a visionary leader who changed the world . What about saints? It is often assumed that people with psychopathic traits are incapable of feeling empathy, love, or forgiveness. However, Dutton argues that this is not necessarily true. He cites the example of Mother Teresa, who was a saint and yet also exhibited many of the traits of a psychopath. She was unemotional, manipulative, and egocentric.

In fact, Dutton argues that some of the world’s greatest saints and spiritual leaders possess psychopathic traits as well. He uses the example of St. Francis of Assisi, who was often described as having a psychopathic personality due to his single-minded focus on his mission and his lack of empathy for those around him. Dutton argues that the same traits that allowed Francis to devote his life so fully to his mission can also be found in successful entrepreneurs, CEOs, and other influential figures. He believes that these qualities can be used for positive change when they are used with wisdom and discernment.

Dutton goes on to say that we all have a little bit of psychopathy in us . It’s not all bad . In fact , he argues , some degree of psychopathy is necessary for success . Without it , we would be unable to take risks or think outside the box . We would be mired in indecision and caution . So how do you know if you have what it takes to be successful ? It’s not easy , but here are three signs that you might have what it takes :

You’re A Risk Taker : Do you like to live on the edge ? Do you feel more alive when you’re taking risks ? If so , you might have what it takes to be successful . Many successful entrepreneurs are risk takers . They’re not afraid to fail ; in fact , they see failure as a learning opportunity . They’re constantly putting themselves out there , trying new things , and pushing boundaries .

You’re Comfortable With Change : Are you comfortable with change ? Do you adapt quickly to new situations ? Do you thrive on challenge ? If so , you might have what it takes to be successful . The world is constantly changing , and those who are able to change with it are often the ones who succeed .

You’re confident : Are you confident in your abilities ? Do you believe in yourself even when others doubt you ? If so , you might have what it takes to be successful . Confidence is key when it comes to taking risks and going after your goals . Those who are able to stay confident even when times are tough are often the ones who come out on top .

The Wisdom of Psychopaths is an interesting book that challenges common assumptions about psychopathy. The author makes a compelling case that some psychopathic traits can actually lead to success in certain contexts. While we all have a little bit of psychopathy in us, those who exhibit certain positive traitS may be more likely than others to find success.