But when the army is restless and distrustful, trouble is sure to come from the otherfeudal princes. Thisis simply bringing anarchy into the army, and flinging victory away
Sun Tzu, the ancient Chinese military strategist, believed that a well-organized and disciplined army is the key to victory in war. In his famous treatise, “The Art of War,” he outlines various strategies and tactics to ensure that an army is successful in battle. However, he also warns of certain mistakes that a general can make that can lead to the downfall of an army.
One such mistake is the failure to maintain the morale and confidence of the soldiers. In Chapter 3, verse 15 of “The Art of War,” Sun Tzu writes, “By employing the officers of his army without discrimination, through ignorance of the military principle of adaptation to circumstances. This shakes the confidence of the soldiers.”
Sun Tzu believed that a general must carefully select and assign officers to appropriate positions based on their skills, experience, and temperament. Each officer must be well-suited to their role and should be able to work well with their colleagues. A mismatch between an officer’s skills and their assigned duties can lead to confusion, mistakes, and a lack of trust among the soldiers.
Additionally, Sun Tzu advises generals to lead by example and to be fair and just in their dealings with their soldiers. A general who shows favoritism or treats soldiers unfairly can erode morale and cause resentment among the troops. It is crucial for a general to maintain the trust and loyalty of their soldiers to ensure that they will fight effectively and courageously in battle.
Sun Tzu warns that if the soldiers become restless and distrustful, it can lead to trouble from other enemies. This is especially true if a general is fighting on multiple fronts or is facing powerful opponents. The soldiers must trust their leaders and have faith in their ability to win, or else they may become demoralized and unable to fight effectively.
In conclusion, Sun Tzu’s advice on maintaining the morale and confidence of soldiers is still relevant today. A successful army is one that is well-organized, disciplined, and led by competent and just leaders. By avoiding the mistakes outlined in “The Art of War,” generals can ensure that their soldiers will fight bravely and effectively in battle, ultimately leading to victory.
Geoff Willis is an accomplished restaurateur and chef with over two decades in the culinary world, blending his passion for gastronomy with an extensive study of philosophy. Known for his innovative approach to cooking and deep commitment to sustainable practices, Geoff combines the art of flavors with philosophical insights, offering readers a unique perspective on food and life.