Bring war material with you from home, but forage on the enemy. Thus the army will have food enough for its needs.
Sun Tzu’s The Art of War is not just a treatise on warfare, but it also offers valuable lessons for success in various aspects of life, including business. Sun Tzu’s strategies can be applied to modern-day business scenarios and help leaders become more effective in their decision-making. In this blog post, we will discuss Sun Tzu’s advice in chapter 2, verse 9, “Bring war material with you from home, but forage on the enemy. Thus the army will have food enough for its needs.”
The key message in this verse is that a successful military leader does not solely rely on the supplies they bring with them, but instead, they seek additional resources from the enemy. Similarly, in business, relying on one source of revenue or one supplier can be risky. Companies that rely on a single product or service may find themselves in trouble if the market changes or if the product becomes obsolete. Therefore, diversifying revenue streams and building relationships with multiple suppliers is a wise strategy for businesses to follow.
Moreover, businesses should always look for opportunities to extract value from their competitors. This can be achieved through strategic partnerships, mergers, or acquisitions. By foraging on the enemy, businesses can obtain additional resources and gain a competitive edge. However, it is essential to conduct thorough research and analysis before entering into any partnerships or acquisitions.
The verse also emphasizes the importance of managing resources efficiently. In war, an army cannot carry an unlimited amount of supplies, and in business, companies cannot sustain high costs indefinitely. Therefore, it is crucial to optimize resource allocation and minimize waste. Companies should streamline their operations and identify areas where they can reduce costs without sacrificing quality or efficiency.
In conclusion, Sun Tzu’s advice in chapter 2, verse 9, is to bring war material with you from home but forage on the enemy. This means that businesses should diversify their revenue streams, build relationships with multiple suppliers, seek opportunities to extract value from their competitors, and manage resources efficiently. By following these principles, businesses can achieve sustained success and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
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.