Sun Tzu – The Art of War 9.44

If in training soldiers commands are habitually enforced, the army will be well-disciplined; if not, its discipline will be bad.

Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” delves into the significance of consistent discipline in the training of soldiers, highlighting the direct impact it has on the overall quality of an army’s discipline. This passage underscores the essential role of regularity and strictness in preparing troops for warfare, emphasizing its applicability beyond the battlefield.

Consistency in Training

Sun Tzu’s words underscore the principle that to build a well-disciplined army, commands must be consistently enforced during training. This means that soldiers must become accustomed to following orders promptly and precisely, fostering a culture of discipline.

The Consequence of Inconsistent Discipline

On the flip side, Sun Tzu warns against laxity in training. When commands are not habitually enforced, discipline within the army becomes subpar. Soldiers may become less inclined to obey orders promptly and effectively, leading to chaos on the battlefield and reduced chances of victory.

Applications Beyond the Military

While this passage primarily addresses military training, its principles have broad applications in various aspects of life. Discipline and consistency are key to success in any endeavor. For instance, in business, a well-structured and consistently enforced set of procedures and standards can significantly improve productivity and ensure that goals are met.

The Power of Habit

Habits are formed through repetition and consistency. In training, whether military or otherwise, instilling good habits is paramount. Soldiers who repeatedly follow orders correctly in training are more likely to do so in the heat of battle. This concept extends to civilian life, where individuals who consistently practice discipline in their routines are better equipped to handle challenges and accomplish their objectives.

Discipline as a Competitive Advantage

Sun Tzu’s message in 9.44 emphasizes that consistent discipline gives an army a competitive edge. In the civilian world, businesses and organizations that maintain high levels of discipline in their operations often outperform competitors. Discipline leads to greater efficiency, higher quality results, and a stronger ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Conclusion

Sun Tzu’s advice in passage 9.44 serves as a reminder of the fundamental role of discipline and consistency in training soldiers, and by extension, in achieving success in various aspects of life. Whether on the battlefield, in business, or in personal development, habitual discipline forms the bedrock of competence, efficiency, and the ability to overcome challenges. Leaders and individuals alike can draw valuable lessons from this wisdom and apply it to their endeavors for improved results and greater success.