When You Surround An Army Leave An Outlet Free Do

If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected .

When strong, avoid them. If of high morale, depress them. Seem humble to fill them with conceit. If at ease, exhaust them. If united, separate them. Attack their weaknesses. Emerge to their surprise.

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.

So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong, and strike at what is weak.

When the enemy is relaxed, make them toil. When full, starve them. When settled, make them move.

You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.