Idea Ripper // ArchiveCards: 1555 [Live] | Updated: 2026-10-14
Card #c1139IR // #c1139Synthesis

"never put off the collecting of supplies until the day of need, make the season of your abundance provide against the time of dearth. You will gain better terms from those on whom you must depend if you are not thought to be in straits"

— In our words · Source: Cyropaedia (Xenophon)

[Use when]

You plan to start fundraising when the runway gets short.

[Why it matters]

Cambyses ties reserves to bargaining power and authority. A leader who isn't visibly short gets better terms from suppliers and more willing followers.

More from Cyropaedia

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Same situation, different book

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