The Art of War – Sun Tzu Quotes – For Life, Business and More.

Collection of Sun Tzu quotes, some may be better acquainted saying quotes from The Art of War. These quotes apply to war, but also life and business.

Sun Tzu Quotes

The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting. ~Sun Tzu
Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak. ~Sun Tzu
Hence that general is skillful in attack whose opponent does not know what to defend; and he is skillful in defense whose opponent does not know what to attack. ~Sun Tzu
Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.
He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight. ~Sun Tzu
“Bravery without forethought, causes a man to fight blindly and desperately like a mad bull. Such an opponent, must not be encountered with brute force, but may be lured into an ambush and slain.” ~Sun Tzu
“Great results can be achieved with small forces.” ~Sun Tzu
When the outlook is bright, bring it before their eyes; but tell them nothing when the situation is gloomy. ~Sun Tzu
“In battle, there are not more than two methods of attack–the direct and the indirect; yet these two in combination give rise to an endless series of maneuvers.” ~Sun Tzu
The greatest victory is that which requires no battle. ~Sun Tzu
The wise warrior avoids the battle. ~Sun Tzu
“If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.” ~Sun Tzu
“To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.” ~Sun Tzu
If you fight with all your might, there is a chance of life; where as death is certain if you cling to your corner. ~Sun Tzu
There is no instance of a nation benefiting from prolonged warfare. ~Sun Tzu
“It is easy to love your friend, but sometimes the hardest lesson to learn is to love your enemy.” ~Sun Tzu
“Plan for what it is difficult while it is easy, do what is great while it is small.” ~Sun Tzu
The whole secret lies in confusing the enemy, so that he cannot fathom our real intent. ~Sun Tzu

Why Sun Tzu is Highly Regarded

“The Art of War”: Sun Tzu’s most famous work, “The Art of War,” is considered one of the most influential military treatises ever written. It has been studied and applied not only in the realm of warfare but also in various fields, including business, leadership, and strategy. The book’s timeless wisdom on strategy, tactics, and leadership has made it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the principles of successful conflict and competition.
Strategic Insights: Sun Tzu’s teachings emphasize the importance of careful planning, strategy, and the use of intelligence in warfare. His emphasis on flexibility, adaptability, and the need to understand and respond to the specific circumstances of a situation has made his ideas relevant in many areas of life, not just on the battlefield.
Historical Significance: Sun Tzu’s work has had a profound impact on the conduct of warfare throughout history. Military leaders, from ancient Chinese generals to modern military commanders, have drawn inspiration from his writings. His ideas have shaped military strategy and tactics and have contributed to the success of numerous military campaigns.
Leadership and Management: Sun Tzu’s principles are not limited to military applications. They can be applied to leadership and management in various contexts. His emphasis on leadership, discipline, and the effective use of resources has made his ideas appealing to business leaders and managers looking for guidance in organizational strategy and decision-making.
Philosophical Wisdom: Sun Tzu’s teachings often transcend the immediate context of warfare. He offers philosophical insights on topics like leadership, conflict resolution, and the human condition. His work is a source of wisdom and guidance for those seeking a deeper understanding of human nature and the dynamics of conflict and cooperation.
Adaptability: Sun Tzu’s principles are adaptable and have been interpreted and applied in various ways over time. This adaptability is a testament to the enduring relevance and universality of his ideas.