Sun Tzu – The Art Of War 2.8

The skillful soldier does not raise a second levy, neither are his supply-wagons loaded more than twice.

Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” is a timeless classic that is still relevant in modern times, especially in the field of military strategy. One of the critical aspects of warfare that Sun Tzu emphasizes is the efficient utilization of resources. In chapter 2, verse 8 of “The Art of War,” Sun Tzu states, “The skillful soldier does not raise a second levy, neither are his supply-wagons loaded more than twice.”

Sun Tzu’s message in this verse is clear: a skillful soldier should not waste resources unnecessarily. A second levy would require more time, money, and energy to train, equip and feed the additional soldiers. Similarly, loading supply-wagons more than twice would be an inefficient use of resources as it would result in more wear and tear on the wagons, requiring more maintenance and repairs.

The verse highlights the importance of managing resources effectively, which is not only applicable in warfare but also in other fields, including business. In a business setting, resources such as money, time, and personnel should be used efficiently to maximize profits and minimize waste.

To apply Sun Tzu’s wisdom in a business context, a company must focus on optimizing its resources to achieve its goals. This may involve hiring and training the right people, using technology to streamline processes, and managing inventory and supply chains effectively.

In conclusion, Sun Tzu’s verse in chapter 2, verse 8 of “The Art of War” emphasizes the importance of managing resources efficiently in warfare. However, its relevance extends beyond the battlefield and can be applied in other areas, including business. By utilizing resources effectively, a company can achieve its goals and maintain a competitive advantage.