To see victory only when it is within the ken of the common herd is not the acme of excellence.
Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” is a timeless text that has transcended through the ages and has been applied to various fields beyond military strategy. Sun Tzu believed that the key to success was not only in winning battles but also in how to win them. His insights provide valuable lessons on leadership, strategy, and decision-making.
In chapter 4, Sun Tzu highlights the importance of being able to see beyond what is apparent to the average person. According to him, victory is not just about winning battles that are clearly visible, but it also involves being able to see opportunities beyond what others can see. In other words, the acme of excellence is not just about achieving victory but being able to see victory before others do.
Sun Tzu believed that to see victory beyond what the common herd can see, one needs to have an acute sense of perception and an understanding of the enemy’s strengths and weaknesses. A good leader should be able to read the enemy’s intentions and anticipate their moves. This means that the leader should be able to see beyond what the enemy is doing at the present moment and predict their future actions. By doing so, the leader can anticipate the enemy’s next move and take steps to counter it before it happens.
To achieve this level of excellence, a leader should have a deep understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses. They should be able to leverage their strengths and shore up their weaknesses to create an advantage that the enemy cannot easily overcome. This requires a level of self-awareness and introspection that is not common in many leaders.
In conclusion, Sun Tzu’s statement in chapter 4, verse 8, emphasizes the importance of seeing beyond what is apparent to the average person. The ability to see opportunities where others see only obstacles is a crucial characteristic of an excellent leader. To achieve this, leaders need to have a deep understanding of themselves and the enemy, which will enable them to anticipate future actions and make the necessary preparations to counter them. Ultimately, this level of excellence will lead to a higher chance of success in any endeavor.
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.