Learning
the skills taught by Sun Tzu requires training. There is a huge difference between reading Sun Tzu and understanding his methods. There is also a huge gap between understanding
his ideas and being able to apply them. Closing both of these gaps is the
key to your success.
As you get flooded with information every day, you use Sun Tzu's mental
models to filter and file that information in a special way.
Sun Tzu's system gives you a framework for building up your
perspective of your strategic position. It also teaches you how to
identify and evaluate various
types of opportunities and threats. Once you learn the methods
involved, you simply practice filing information to build up your
strategic picture.
However, much Sun Tzu's work teaches specific responses to specific
situations. We call this the study of
situation response. As you read his work, you may
be able to see how a few of his lessons apply directly to your
immediate situation. Without practice, however,, you will not remember the
variety of characteristics determine specific response. People
remember
only five percent of what they read. While our books provide
a fast entry point into learning Sun Tzu's system, simply reading a book doesn't train you.
Sun Tzu's "winning without conflict" is a way of living. It is a way
of seeing the world. It is not just bunch of clever aphorisms. It is a skill
set of reflexes and responses. Skills require training and practice.
Think of
Sun Tzu's The Art of War as a teaching a mental martial art. Do you
think you can master any martial art by simply reading a book?
