All warfare is based on deception.

Sun Tzu's "the Art of War" is an amazing manuscript that is a translation of a late 6th century B.C. Chinese generals military strategies. The book reads like a list and at a glance seems like it is strictly about literal warfare. However, after reading a few chapters you realize how you can apply this way of thinking to every aspect of your life. Relationships at work, home, and yes, even in today's military strategies.

When their substance is drained away, the peasantry will be afflicted by heavy exactions.

In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns.

The rule is, not to besiege walled cities if it can possibly be avoided.

Therefore the skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field.

Hence the saying: If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat.

Hence the saying: One may KNOW how to conquer without being able to DO it.