To Move as a Shadow
Use feints and misdirection to provoke an opponent into revealing their strengths and weaknesses, then exploit the opening decisively.
THE IDEA
TO MOVE AS A SHADOW
Sometimes you cannot go straight in to the enemy and it is necessary to feint just prior to attacking strongly. If the enemy is very strong, he may not show his spirit. Because of this, it is essential that you make a “misdirecting” motion to open up the enemy, forcing him to show you his strengths and weaknesses. You must constantly be aware of your surroundings and be able to capitalize upon them. If you make an opening, then you absolutely must go for it or it is a waste of the “spirit of the thing.” If you practice otherwise, after a while you will be unable to take advantage of an enemy’s weaknesses and become ineffective as a warrior. You will certainly lose the Way. Study this carefully.
When to use it
In a debate, you might argue a weaker point to lure the opponent into committing to a position, then counter with a strong rebuttal.
In military strategy, conduct a diversionary attack on one flank to draw enemy reserves, then strike the weakened flank with the main force.
In product development, present a proposed feature to gauge interest before committing resources.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Business Negotiation
A negotiator makes a tentative offer to draw a response, then uses that response to identify the other party’s priorities before making a formal offer.
Sports Feint
In boxing, a fighter feints a jab to the head, causing the opponent to raise their guard, then lands a powerful body shot to the exposed midsection.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
In a recent decision or conflict, how could feinting have revealed hidden information or weaknesses earlier?
What is the risk of showing a feint without committing to the follow-through? How does that waste the 'spirit of the thing'?
How can you be more aware of your surroundings to create openings in your personal or professional life?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Musashis book of five rings the definitive interpretation of Miyamoto Musashis classic book of strategy (Kaufman, SteveMiyamoto, Musashi)