Leadership Lessons from Sun Tzu and The Art of War

Summary

Sun Tzu's The Art of War is one of the world's most influential books about leadership. It has been read and utilized not only by military professionals and generals, but by CEOs of companies, by teachers and pastors, and by many in leadership positions. Those who want to be successful leaders should follow Sun Tzu's teachings.  While his book is focused on war and battle, it can be translated easily to modern day life. The lessons Sun Tzu teaches are vital to manage a successful business or any venture. The Art of War has influenced politics and war for centuries and even has applications in business and sports.  Sun Tzu was a military general and a renowned strategist and philosopher. Much of what he wrote in The Art of War came from his experience on the battle field. Sun Tzu was born in 544 BC and died in 496 BC. These years were known as the Spring and Autumn period in ancient Chinese history. His birth name was Sun Wu and he was known by the name Changqing. He was given the name “Sun Tzu” as an honorary title meaning “Master Sun”.  Sun Tzu is known to have served king Helü of Wu starting in 512 BC. Sun Tzu had many victories that inspired him to write The Art of War. Many military leaders and strategists utilized Sun Tzu's work in the Warring States period in Chinese history, when the seven nations of Zhao, Qi, Qin, Chu, Han, Wei, and Yan all battled for control over large Chinese territories. Many copies of The Art of War are filled with stories of battles telling of Sun Tzu's teachings as examples of how his influence over these leaders led them to victory.

©2018 Matt Harrison (P)2018 Matt Harrison