Rulers & Generals-Sun Zi

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Rulers & Generals by Sun Zi

English: Now in warfare, those who are able to win battles and secure land and cities but are unable to exploit the gains swiftly and expediently will jeopardize their interest. This is tantamount to a waste of time and resources. Thus, it is said that it is the enlightened leader who deliberates on the plan while the capable general implements it. Move only when there are advantages to be gained. Strike only when there are definite chances of success. Fight only when there are definite dangers.

Modern: 凡是打了胜战、夺取城邑，但不能巩固其成果，是很危险的，叫做耗费资财的“费留”。所以说，贤明的国君要慎重的考虑它，优秀的将领也会认真的处理它。没有利益就不行动，不能取胜就不使用，不到万不得已的危险之时就不决战。

Original: 夫战胜攻取，而不修其功者凶，命曰费留。 故曰，明主虑之，良将修之。非利不动，非得不用，非危不战。

Business Application:

From: Sun Zi Art of War Chapter 12