Sun Tzu – The Art of War 7.1

In war, the general receives his commands from the sovereign.

Sun Tzu’s famous treatise, The Art of War, is not only a guide for military strategy but also contains valuable lessons for leadership and decision-making in various fields. One of the most important principles emphasized in the text is the relationship between the general and the sovereign.

According to Sun Tzu, the general, who is responsible for carrying out military operations, must receive his commands from the sovereign. In other words, the general’s actions must be aligned with the overall strategic goals and objectives of the sovereign, who is the ultimate decision-maker.

This principle highlights the importance of clear communication and a shared vision between the leader and the subordinates. Without a clear understanding of the sovereign’s intentions and objectives, the general’s actions may not only be ineffective but also counterproductive to the overall strategy.

Furthermore, this principle also emphasizes the importance of trust between the sovereign and the general. The general must have faith in the sovereign’s decisions and trust that they have the best interests of the organization in mind. In return, the sovereign must trust the general to carry out their commands effectively and efficiently.

This principle can be applied not only in military settings but also in business, politics, and other areas where leadership and decision-making are critical. Leaders must communicate their vision and goals clearly to their subordinates, and the subordinates must trust and align their actions with the overall strategy.

In conclusion, Sun Tzu’s principle that the general receives his commands from the sovereign emphasizes the importance of clear communication, shared vision, and trust between leaders and subordinates. By following this principle, leaders can achieve their objectives efficiently and effectively.