Quotes from The Art of War by Sun Tzu
All warfare is based on deception.
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There is no instance of a country having benefited from prolonged warfare.
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It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.
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In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns.
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To secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands, but the opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself.
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Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted. Therefore the clever combatant imposes his will on the enemy, but does not allow the enemy's will to be imposed on him.
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Do not repeat the tactics which have gained you one victory, but let your methods be regulated by the infinite variety of circumstances.
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Water shapes its course according to the nature of the ground over which it flows; the soldier works out his victory in relation to the foe whom he is facing.
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We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors.
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When some are seen advancing and some retreating, it is a lure.
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If those who are sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, the army is suffering from thirst.
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The sight of men whispering together in small knots or speaking in subdued tones points to disaffection amongst the rank and file.
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The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom.
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Prohibit the taking of omens, and do away with superstitious doubts. Then, until death itself comes, no calamity need be feared.
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Bestow rewards without regard to rule, issue orders without regard to previous arrangements; and you will be able to handle a whole army as though you had to do with but a single man.
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No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique.
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A kingdom that has once been destroyed can never come again into being; nor can the dead ever be brought back to life.
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Knowledge of the enemy's dispositions can only be obtained from other men.
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Hence it is that which none in the whole army are more intimate relations to be maintained than with spies. None should be more liberally rewarded. In no other business should greater secrecy be preserved.
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The Art of War by Sun Tzu – A nonfiction work from ancient history. An excellent source of wisdom that will expand your problem solving abilities. Victory comes to those who think.