By holding out baits, he keeps him on the march; then with a body of picked men he lies in wait for him.

Sun Tzu’s quote encapsulates a key strategy in warfare that emphasizes the use of deception and patience to outmaneuver an opponent. The phrase "holding out baits" refers to enticing an enemy into a vulnerable position, leveraging their desires or ambitions against them. By maintaining the enemy's focus on the bait, one can create opportunities for strategic advantage. The waiting element, combined with a "body of picked men," indicates the importance of preparation and selective deployment of resources to capitalize on the enemy’s misstep. In modern contexts, this strategy can be applied beyond the battlefield; it resonates in competitive business practices, negotiations, and even personal relationships. In the corporate world, companies often present enticing offers or marketing campaigns (the bait) to draw competitors into a reactive position, where they may expend resources hastily or make uncalculated decisions. For example, a firm may release a product or offer a promotion that causes competitors to overextend themselves in response, ultimately leading to their downfall when they become prey to strategic countermoves. In negotiations, parties may use the tactic of presenting agreeable terms while secretly preparing contingent plans for less favorable outcomes. This reflects the strategic calculation that Sun Tzu advocates: a combination of patience, tactical foresight, and the element of surprise can lead to favorable results. On a personal level, relationships can also reflect this strategy. Individuals may project certain traits or desires to attract others, while preparing their own response to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics. The essence of Sun Tzu's wisdom suggests that success often hinges on mastering the art of strategic delay, careful observation, and crafty positioning—principles that are timeless and broadly applicable across various arenas of life.