Ground which can be abandoned but is hard to re-occupy is called entangling.

The quote by Sun Tzu, "Ground which can be abandoned but is hard to re-occupy is called entangling," captures the essence of strategic decision-making, particularly in contexts of warfare, competition, or any significant struggle involving resources and territory. Here, "ground" symbolizes any position or advantage—whether physical, emotional, or situational—that one might hold in a given context. The phrase "can be abandoned" suggests that certain situations or resources might initially seem expendable or less critical, allowing one to retreat or move forward easily. However, "hard to re-occupy" warns against this course of action, emphasizing the potential long-term consequences of abandoning such positions. The idea is that relinquishing control over a seemingly minor advantage may lead to greater difficulties in regaining it later, particularly if the circumstances change or if competitors capitalize on your vacated position. In modern applications, this quote can be relevant in various fields, such as business, politics, and personal relationships. For instance, in the business world, a company that neglects a strategic market position—perhaps by dismissing a niche segment—might find it challenging to reclaim that market presence later, especially if competitors establish deep connections or innovate within that space. Similarly, in relationships, distancing oneself from valuable connections or support systems might seem advantageous in the short term but can create obstacles to reconciliation or nurturing those bonds later. Thus, Sun Tzu's insight encourages careful evaluation of what we deem expendable. It serves as a reminder to recognize the potential complexity of our decisions and urges us to preserve critical advantages, ensuring that we maintain strategic footholds that may appear minor, but are essential for future success.