“When you are strong, appear to be weak.”Sun Tzu · Arta războiului · -500 · capitolul 1
Sun Tzu describes a fundamental principle of strategic deception: when you have a clear advantage, hide it. If the enemy believes you are weak, they will become arrogant and make risky moves, exposing themselves. For example, a military commander who feigns a retreat can lure the opposing army into an ambush. It is a lesson about the power of appearances and how apparent vulnerability can be the greatest strength.
Why it matters In negotiations or professional competition, showing your cards prematurely makes you vulnerable; appearing less prepared than you are can cause the opponent to underestimate and make mistakes.