3.7

"The general is the nation's support. If this support is whole, the nation will be strong. If this support is broken, then the nation will be weak."
- Sun Tzu

This line reiterates the theme of the last line in Book 2. For Sun Tzu, the general is not simply responsible for following the ruler's orders or for winning battles. He is responsible for keeping the nation safe and secure. This should be top of mind for the general.

Thus, whatever strategy the general devises must fall in line with keeping the nation secure. This is yet another reason why the general must try to find a way to win without doing battle, as every battle, every confrontation, risks the security of the nation.

As general of your own life, you must also think about making your future secure. Strategy requires thinking ahead, making sure to not make decisions that place yourself in a worse or tighter position than before.

Always ask yourself where a certain decision will lead you. Will that purchase leave you with less money in the future - money that you could use for something more urgent? Will that harsh comment you make to your significant other help your relationship, or cause a wedge?

Keeping your future secure should be top of mind for your decision-making. Always think about whether or not you'll end up in a better or worse position if you make a certain decision.