Many of us have read the “Art Of War” but how many of us have truly understood it? What does the most influential and important military text have to teach us? This is something that we will discuss today but first, we must shed some light on the life of Sun Tzu– The Chinese Strategist who started it all!
How do you win a war exactly? Should you have more troops than the enemy? Is a better arsenal the key to victory? Should we lay siege to their city? The key to warfare according to at least one strategist is to have a better strategy than the enemy. Aim at the enemy’s strategy and defeat them there, that will surely ensure victory!
Who Was Sun Tzu?
To fully comprehend the Art Of War, we must first understand who Sun Tzu was. The thing about Sun Tzu is that his whole existence is shrouded in mystery. Where did he live? Where was he born? How did he become so successful? How did he die? No one truly knows the answer to these questions.
There are many people that actually believe that Sun Tzu did not live, he was just a myth, to begin with. This claim is strongly supported by some because Sun Tzu does not appear in many important historical records, but then again, there could be an error.
It could be possible that Sun Tzu was born under a different name, many claim that he was born with the name Sun Wu around 544 BCE. Sun Tzu makes the major appearance of his life as a military strategist for King Ho-Lu, in the state of Wu. Sun Tzu started serving the king around 512 BCE and was also known for many victories and conquests.
Sun Tzu is also known for writing the most influential military text, “The Art Of War”. According to researchers, he supposedly wrote the texts during the Warring States period (475-221 BCE). This was the time when China was divided into seven states that waged war against each other for supremacy.
What Can We Learn From The Art Of War?
The Art Of War is one of the world’s most famous and influential military texts, written by the Chinese Strategist Sun Tzu. A famous military text has now turned into a guide for all manner of conflict, it is recommended by all the famous business gurus and even sports coaches.
Why is The Art Of War so influential and helpful? Whenever there is a battle within ourselves, or internal/external conflict in an organization, “Art Of War” provides the necessary guidelines for victory. Even if the conflict is with one’s competition or nature, “Art Of War” gives definitive advice on how to approach that conflict and emerge victorious.
Want to know more about the lessons that Art Of War provides? Take a look at these important life lessons, “The Art Of War” teaches us.
Choose Your Battles Carefully
One of the first lessons that we learn from The Art Of War is to choose our battles. It is better to understand when you should engage in a conflict and when it will be wise to avoid any argument at all. This teaching extends beyond the battlefields and applies to our everyday lives.
He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight.
Always Plan And Strategize
Planning is the core of The Art Of War. Having a well-defined strategy before you enter any conflict can guide you through it. In fact, it is also important in everyday life to have clear SMART goals to increase your chances of success.
In war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak.
So no matter if you are going to start a business, pursue a project, or face a difficulty in your life, it is always a better idea to approach these everyday problems with a strategy.
Asses Your Enemy And Yourself
Knowing yourself is important but it is also equally important to know your enemy. Undermining your enemy can be the biggest mistake you make. Understand your strengths but also recognize your weaknesses and vulnerabilities. This can help you develop strategies to protect the weakest parts of yourself.
Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will not be imperiled in a hundred battles
Always Be Adaptable And Flexible
You can use Psychological Warfare but for that, you need to be flexible yourself. You need to be responsive to your changing circumstances and adapt to them. Seize an opportunity whenever it arises and you can only do it when you are flexible enough to adapt new ideas.
In war and life, the key to success lies in adaptability and flexibility. Victory belongs to those who can adjust to changing circumstances, seize opportunities, and remain responsive to the evolving dynamics of their environment
Recap
“The Art Of War” by Sun Tzu is not just a military treatise; it’s a guide for our everyday life. It offers valuable insights into strategy, leadership, and conflict resolution. You can apply these principles to different situations beyond the battlefield. This makes it a valuable resource for individuals seeking success in their personal and professional lives.
Also Read: How to Use Mind Power and Your Subconscious
