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The Art of War for Today's Life Strategist
Author: Rodney Ohebsion
“Do not repeat the exact same tactics just because they have gained you one victory. Instead, let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances.” This is a line from the ancient Chinese book of military strategy known as The Art of War, which was written well over 2000 years ago, and was regarded in ancient times as sacred information that was secretly transmitted and closely guarded.
Over time, people have treasured the Art of War not only for military purposes, but also for the tremendously insightful principles it describes about general strategy and leadership. Some general strategic themes and ideas of the book include:
- adapting to circumstances, including the environment and the opponent’s strategy
- fitting the proper strategy to the proper circumstance
- basing your strategy on unpredictableness and deception
- capitalizing on opportunities, including the vulnerabilities of opponents
- making your opponents vulnerable by causing disorder and disharmony among them
- minimizing your own vulnerability
- getting the best out of those you command
- knowing when it is the best time and situation to do battle
Now in the new book A Collection of Wisdom, author Rodney Ohebsion has presented some of the best parts of The Art of War that are applicable to today’s life strategist, and has also revised the translation to be clear, efficient, and reflective of modern English.
Here is a sampling of the Art of War selections in A Collection of Wisdom:
In war, let your chief aim be victory, not lengthy campaigns.
In warfare, the victorious strategist first wins, and then seeks to do battle; whereas the defeated strategist first fights, and then afterwards looks for victory.
The clever combatant looks to the effect of combined energy, and does not require too much from individuals; hence his ability to pick out the right men and utilize combined energy.
In warfare there are no constant conditions. He who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent and thereby succeed in winning, may be called a harmoniously powerful captain.
When the general is weak and without authority; when his orders are not clear and distinct; when there are no fixed duties assigned to officers and men, and the ranks are formed in a slovenly haphazard manner, the result is utter disorganization.
Regard your soldiers as your children, and they will follow you into the deepest valleys. Look upon them as your own beloved sons, and they will stand by you even unto death.
If, however, you are lenient, but unable to make your authority felt; kind-hearted, but unable to enforce your commands; and incapable, moreover, of quelling disorder; then your soldiers must be likened to spoilt children—they are useless for any practical purpose.
Carefully study the well-being of your men, and do not overtax them. Concentrate your energy and hoard your strength.
Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical. No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own self; no general should fight a battle simply out of pride. If it is to your advantage, make a forward move; if not, stay where you are.
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These and many other Art of War passages are contained in the Art of War chapter of A Collection of Wisdom. The book also contains over 70 other chapters covering various other topics. More information on the book can be found at http://www.immediex.com/acowbook.html
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Rodney Ohebsion is author of A Collection of Wisdom and several other books. More information about him can be found at www.immediex.com/rodneyohebsion.html
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