“This is the Way for men who want to learn my strategy:

1. Do not think dishonestly.

2. The Way is in training.

3. Become acquainted with every art.

4. Know the Ways of all professions.

5. Distinguish between gain and loss in worldly matters.

6. Develop intuitive judgment and understanding for everything.

7. Perceive those things which cannot be seen.

8. Pay attention even to trifles.

9. Do nothing which is of no use.

It is important to start by setting these broad principles in your heart, and train in the Way of strategy. If you do not look at things on a large scale it will be difficult for you to master strategy.

If you learn and attain this strategy you will never lose even to twenty or thirty enemies. More than anything to start with you must set your heart on strategy and earnestly stick to the Way. You will come to be able to actually beat ten men in fights and to be able to win with your eye.

Also by training, you will be able to freely control your own body, conquer men with your body, and with sufficient training, you will be able to beat ten men with your spirit. When you have reached this point, will it not mean that you are invincible?

Moreover, in large-scale strategy the superior man will manage many subordinates dextrously, bear himself correctly, govern the country, and foster the people, thus preserving the ruler’s discipline.

If there is a Way involving the spirit of not being defeated, to help oneself and gain honour, it is the Way of strategy.”

Miyamoto Musashi (Go Rin No Sho – The Book Of Five Rings: The Ground Book)

(Part of my Art of War workshops, the short version workshops are free and held on every Friday at 3pm UK time, every third week in the month via zoom)

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