Able Quote by Sun Tzu
“The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy. To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself. Thus the good fighter is able to secure himself against defeat, but cannot make certain of defeating the enemy.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Art of War, 5th century BC
A skilled fighter prepares for defeat internally, but relies on the enemy's actions to create victory opportunities.
In simple terms: Prepare yourself, wait for the enemy's mistake.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate resilience and patience.
Themes
strategy
resilience
patience
Mood
reflective
strategic
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- military planning
- personal challenges
- competitive sports
Key Concepts
self‑reliance
enemy‑dependence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance self‑preparation with exploiting opponent errors?
- When is waiting more powerful than attacking?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence can blind one to the enemy's subtle moves.
![“The PEOPLE being regarded as the essential part of the State, and FOOD as the people's heaven, is it not right that those in authority should value and be careful of both?"]” quote by Sun Tzu](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1e5/sun-tzu-283_food_the-people-being-regarded-as-the-essenti_16787.jpg)
