Like this article? Sign up for a free trial here. Shortform has the world's best summaries of books you should be reading. We get far more from life– personally, professionally, and spiritually– when we work to remain in harmony with the world around us.This article is an excerpt from the Shortform summary of "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu. Know that, even if you win, you’re coming away a loser in one way another. The lesson? Don’t seek conflict– seek resolution. No one hopes for war unless they’re deranged and maniacal, and if they are, that’s owed simply to their mental instability - another kind of noise that keeps us from clear thought and pure, unobstructed intent. However, each of these elements is noise and only serves to mask the true desire of a people. One of the single most important lessons throughout The Art of War is that, despite being a continuous part of life that humans intentionally engage in, conflict– if prolonged– hurts everyone involved.Ĭonflict occurs when human emotions run high, cultural and religious differences create a divide, and pride ruptures relations. There is no instance of a nation benefiting from prolonged warfare. Sun Tzu suggested generals be prepared for anything, and advised them to remain calm and clear-minded during chaos, as he understood that the moment people tend to freak out and stop thinking rationally can be an opportunity and make the difference between winning and losing. Especially professional and business success, where uniqueness, creativity, and innovation drive progress. However, this same principle applies to everything else in life. In war, it’s often the creative plan that leads to victory as it throws off the opponent and creates just enough of an advantage to gain control of the entire situation. The above quote by Sun Tzu references the importance of innovation and creative thinking in conflict. Consider the timing of everything you do and you’ll give yourself a natural advantage. There are also times in your day when you’re most and least productive and when people will be most receptive. There are times in your life when it’s most opportune to put your head down and pursue your dreams. And the enemy, or whatever you’re confronted with, is ever changing in just the same way. This is partly because the world is ever changing. In The Art of War, Sun Tzu says that it’s important to time when you engage the enemy. The right opportunity, at the right time, can be the difference between success and failure. Timing is critical for relationships, for life goals, our career, habits, really everything in your life. Timing is a factor that most of us overlook. The quality of decision is like the well-timed swoop of a falcon which enables it to strike and destroy its victim.
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