The Third Control of the Enemy
Never let the enemy overwhelm you; keep your spirit high and resolve strong, aiming to cut him down regardless of his approach. Through constant practice and deep study, you internalize this mindset until action becomes instinctive.
THE IDEA
THE THIRD CONTROL OF THE ENEMY
Never be overwhelmed by the enemy. You can ensure this by keeping your spirit tall and your resolve strong. Regardless of how the enemy approaches, your main thought should be to cut him down. Should the enemy attack strongly and calmly, you must become one with the attack, and through superior resolve cut him down swiftly.
Without constant practice, it is hard for words to convey the true meaning of the thought. To come to understand something that appears obvious, you must constantly probe into the meaning of the words. You must unceasingly practice the techniques. When you think you understand something, you have made only the first approach to it. To further clarify your understanding, you must read and read again. Each time you read and practice a “thing,” the “spirit of the thing itself ” will reveal more of itself to you. Study is a life-long undertaking. That is why it is said that “the warrior first understands being a warrior when he no longer concerns himself with being a warrior.” The main thing to understand is that you must have no hesitation in killing the enemy.
When to use it
Martial arts sparring match where you face a stronger, more aggressive fighter
High-stakes business negotiation where the other party uses intimidation tactics
Legal cross-examination where opposing counsel attacks your witness relentlessly
Emergency response situation requiring immediate, decisive action under pressure
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Competitive Debate
A debater facing an aggressive opponent keeps track of the central claim and prepares a concise response. Practice helps them stay composed and challenge the argument when the rules allow a reply.
Business Negotiation
During a merger negotiation, the other party presses for an immediate answer. The negotiator stays composed, checks what the deadline means, and responds with a considered counteroffer or a request for time.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
When facing a strong opponent, how can you maintain unwavering resolve rather than being overwhelmed?
Recall a moment you hesitated in a critical decision. How might adopting the 'Third Control' mindset have changed the outcome?
What does it mean to 'become one with the attack' in a non-physical context, such as a heated discussion or crisis?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Musashis book of five rings the definitive interpretation of Miyamoto Musashis classic book of strategy (Kaufman, SteveMiyamoto, Musashi)