Now a soldier’s spirit is keenest in the morning; by noonday it has begun to flag; and in the evening, his mind is bent only on returning to camp.
Chapter 8, Section 28 of The Art of War states that a soldier’s spirit is at its strongest in the morning, weaker by noon, and by evening is only focused on returning to camp. This understanding of the ebbs and flows of a soldier’s energy is crucial in the timing and planning of military maneuvers.
Sun Tzu’s emphasis on understanding the mental and physical state of soldiers highlights the importance of maintaining morale and motivation within an army. A wise commander must know when to push their soldiers to their limits and when to allow them rest and recuperation.
This section also points to the importance of utilizing time effectively during battles. A commander who knows their soldiers’ strengths and weaknesses can plan for peak performance during key moments of the day, allowing for strategic advantages over the enemy.
Overall, understanding the psychology and energy levels of soldiers is crucial in successful military operations. As Sun Tzu wrote, “the general who wins the battle makes many calculations in his temple before the battle is fought. The general who loses makes but few calculations beforehand.”
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.