The Second Control of the Enemy
A mental model for remaining calm and misdirecting the enemy's attack, either by feinting or countering with greater force.
THE IDEA
THE SECOND CONTROL OF THE ENEMY
Do not let the enemy overwhelm you with his apparent strength and technique. You must remain calm at all times; in this way you can control the attack. When the attack comes, be sure to “misdirect” the aim of the enemy. As an example, feint left and strike from the right. The other way is to sense the attack and, at the very moment of the enemy’s movement, charge in with greater strength, power, and resolve.
When to use it
In sports, when an opponent shows a predictable pattern, use a feint to create an opening.
In a debate, when attacked, redirect the focus to a different point.
In business competition, when a rival launches a product, misdirect by highlighting a different advantage.
In personal interactions, when someone is aggressive, stay calm and defuse by changing the subject.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Feinting in Combat
Feint left and strike from the right. This misdirection causes the enemy to react to the feint, leaving them open to the real attack.
Negotiation Misdirection
In a business negotiation, pretend to focus on a minor issue to distract the other party from your main objective.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
How can you apply the principle of calmness and misdirection in a high-pressure situation?
When is it more effective to counter-attack directly versus using a feint?
Think of a recent conflict: could you have used misdirection to achieve a better outcome?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Musashis book of five rings the definitive interpretation of Miyamoto Musashis classic book of strategy (Kaufman, SteveMiyamoto, Musashi)