What are 10 characteristics essential for a prince to rule successfully?

The Prince by Machiavelli was
addressed to Lorenzo de Medici, who was a member of the ruling family in Florence, as a
gift. Although your question asks for ten characteristics for a prince to rule
successfully, understand that several of these characteristics overlap one another.
Therefore it is important to review the reference link below for further
clarification:

1. never leave anything to
chance

2. organize the military without mercenary soldiers
because they fight for money, not loyalty

3. it is not
necessary to reward loyalty with loyalty

4. morality and
ethical behavior are subject to change

5. the perception of
the prince is more important than actuality

6. appearance
matters

7. deception is acceptable and even
necessary

8. promises might have to be
broken

9. keep your friends close to you, but keep your
enemies "closer"--meaning know what your opponent is doing at all
costs

10. to keep power a prince fully accepts the concept
of the ends justify the means