Therefore the clever combatant imposes his will on the enemy, but does not allow the enemy’s will to be imposed on him.
Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of imposing one’s will on the enemy in warfare. The clever combatant understands that victory is not achieved solely by overpowering the enemy, but also by controlling the flow and direction of the battle. By imposing their will on the enemy, they force them to react to their moves, rather than the other way around.
However, the clever combatant also understands the dangers of becoming too rigid in their plans and allowing the enemy to impose their will on them. They must be flexible and adaptable, constantly evaluating and adjusting their strategies to maintain the upper hand.
Ultimately, the ability to impose one’s will on the enemy while avoiding becoming a victim of their tactics is what separates the successful combatant from the defeated.
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.