Warriors

I just finished reading The Art of War by Sun Tzu. It’s filled with military strategies. Some of the ideas can be useful in dealing with our daily battles.

 “If you know the enemy and know yourself you need not fear the results of a hundred battles.” (Sun Tzu)

Understanding your opponent involves an impartial analysis of his skills and weaknesses. Carefully study your opponent. An opponent doesn’t necessarily have to be your enemy. It can be anyone you have dealings with, whether it’s a friend, a client, a coworker, an employer, or a family member.

It is hard to be impartial when you feel passionate about a situation. And, it’s difficult to fight for something if you don’t believe passionately in it. Knowing your enemy without being clouded by emotion is harder than it sounds at first.

Knowing ourselves involves being conscious of the enemy within. Our weak areas have to be shielded. Our skills have to be strengthened. Tests of stamina and endurance may improve our confidence. However, good judgment, self-control, and mental discipline are the keys to fighting our inner battles.

“Can you imagine what I would do if I could do all I can?” (Sun Tzu)

Awareness allows us to leap up to a higher plane. It’s the difference between being a foot soldier and a warrior on a horse. A warrior on a horse can see much farther, and this perspective gives him an advantage. Conscious awareness of ourselves and others allows us to move past mere good intentions to winning these battles.