About this quote

True deception always wears the badge of absolute truth. People who brag about their skills in manipulation are usually just desperate for attention. The truly dangerous manipulators are the ones constantly establishing their reputation for flawless integrity. You need to watch what people do, not the labels they proudly claim. Who in your life keeps telling you how trustworthy they are?

When to use it

• You are hiring a business partner and they joke about how easily they trick investors. You walk away immediately because a truly devious person would keep that quiet.
• Your sibling keeps loudly declaring that they have no filter and can never tell a lie. You start watching their actions closely because real honesty does not need a marketing campaign.
• A colleague boasts about how she always tricks the boss into giving her extra time off. You realize she is actually a terrible planner who is about to get caught.