Kautilya emphasized the importance of being pragmatic and flexible as a leader. He believed that an effective ruler should adjust policies based on the circumstances, whether in war or diplomacy.
Kautilya advocated for forming alliances and partnerships that could strengthen a ruler's position. He emphasized that alliances should not just be based on trust but on mutual benefits.
A ruler or leader, according to Kautilya, should always plan for the long-term and foresee challenges before they arise.
Kautilya believed that the welfare of the people should be the primary responsibility of a ruler. He noted that a kingdom could only prosper if its people were happy, safe, and prosperous.
Though Kautilya was often considered ruthless in his strategies, he also emphasized the need for ethical behavior in governance.