First, let's establish that House of Cards is NOT about politics. Got it? OK, cool.
Second, on the surface, the show seems to run on manipulation, drama, lies, greed and deception. But once you dive a little deeper, you'll find many life lessons within that in one way or another everyone can relate or learn from the successes and mistakes of Frank and Claire Underwood.
Without further due, here are ten lessons we can all gain from Frank Underwood:
1. "If you don't like how the table is set, turn over the table."
Don’t just sit by while life passes you by. If you don't like the way things are going, then change it. Create your own luck and you’ll be better off for it. And that’s exactly what Frank does. Time and time again he shows how he is able to set the table and flip it just because he can to get him what he wants.
2. “Even Achilles was only as strong as his heel.”
During season two is when Frank's vulnerability and his ability to fear is exposed, which at the end of the day shows that he really is human. Never let your weakest point be your downfall. Whatever it may be, work at it so you’re not an easy target.
3. “Sometimes I think the Presidency is the illusion of choice."
Though everyone might think that they are the captain of their own ship, it’s really what blows the wind that tells you where you’re headed.The fight between predestination and free will is one that Frank battles with constantly. Even when he believes he is the one holding the reins, there are always outside forces pushing against him. But even then, he fights through whatever is put in front of him.
4. “There is no solace above or below. Only us—small, solitary, striving, battling one another. I pray to myself, for myself. “
Frank makes it clear that there is only one world: the one we all live in right now. When he looks for guidance, he gains it from himself and only himself. You have to admit that’s pretty bad-ass. As harsh as it may seem to some, Frank displays that you cannot find a stronger agency than the one that you find in yourself. You are in control of you and the end-result will fall under your responsibility.
5. “There’s no better way to overpower a trickle of doubt than with a flood of naked truth.”
When you don’t have an answer, be honest and find the right answer and be confident. The truth will always overpower doubt.
6. “Insecurity bores me.”
There's nothing more attractive than confidence and self-security. Confidence makes you appreciate the skills and faults you possess to use them to your advantage. It's very simple: would you rather be friends with someone who is consistently positive or who constantly needs your validation of their own worth?
7. "I never make such big decisions so long after sunset and so far from dawn.”
Let yourself "sleep on it" before making a monumental decision. Whether it is a new adventure, change in your lifestyle, or new business, it's never wise to commit to a decision without first giving thoughtful consideration of conceivable outcomes.
8. “Money is the McMansion in Sarasota that starts falling apart after 10 years. Power is the old stone building that stand for centuries.”
Power does not mean money, and money does not mean power. Power lasts as long as you cultivate and use it. Money simply doesn’t last. Without influence, your ability to overcome obstacles is useless.
9. “I love that woman, I love her more than sharks love blood.”
Love is not the word I would use to describe Frank and Claire’s marriage.They use each other to gain personal and professional goals.Whether it is the presidency or becoming a UN ambassador, the Underwood's will stop at nothing to get each other where they want to be. Through their relationship, we can learn that marriage does not necessarily mean love.
10. “Nobody showed up for his funeral except me, not even my mother,” says Frank. “But I’ll tell you this: When they bury me, it won’t be in my backyard. And when they pay their respects, they’ll have to wait in line.”
Behind the scenes, Frank is a ruthless tyrant, but he manages to keep moving up the ranks without severely damaging his public image. And you have to admire the man for keeping his reputation intact, right? Fake it until you make it.
At the end of the day, you'll either absolutely love Frank or hate him. Regardless of where you fall on the scale of devoutness, everyone can learn a thing or two from his character.
