Principles of Living
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Principles of Living · Bookplate
J. P. Morgan

J. P. Morgan

@j-p-morgan

“J. P. Morgan was an American financier and banker who played a central role in the consolidation of industrial and financial enterprises in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He helped shape modern corporate finance and was instrumental in organizing major companies such as U.S. Steel and General Electric.”

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The manifesto · 15 principles
  1. When necessary, act as a stabilizing force for the wider economy, not merely for personal gain.
  2. Cultivate relationships based on trust, discretion, and mutual respect.
  3. Use power quietly and effectively; avoid unnecessary publicity and let outcomes speak for themselves.
  4. Invest in quality and permanence; the best institutions are built to last.
  5. Support strong leadership and clear authority when complex organizations need direction.
  6. Treat business as a matter of character as much as money; integrity is inseparable from success.
  7. Be willing to take responsibility in crises and use influence to restore confidence.
  8. Value practical results over rhetoric; what matters is whether a plan works.
  9. Maintain personal dignity and self-command; composure under pressure is a mark of strength.
  10. Use capital to create enduring enterprises, not just short-term profits.
  11. Demand competence, order, and accountability from people and institutions.
  12. Concentrate on stability and control; organize fragmented enterprises into stronger, more efficient systems.
  13. Prefer sound judgment over speculation; build wealth through disciplined finance rather than gambling on uncertainty.
  14. Act decisively when the facts are clear; hesitation can be more costly than bold action.
  15. Keep your word and honor your obligations; credit, trust, and reputation are the foundation of serious business.