You cannot know if you will be successful or not. You can only prepare for battle and it must be done with all of your heart and with all of your consciousness. In that manner, you will have an edge.

To Subdue an enemy without fighting is the greatest of skills

Invincibility lies in the defense; the possibility of victory in the attack.

Defeat the enemies strategy.

The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom.

Therefore a victorious army first wins and then seeks battle; a defeated army first battles and then seeks victory.

The general that hearkens to my counsel and acts upon it, will conquer: let such a one be retained in command! The general that hearkens not to my counsel nor acts upon it, will suffer defeat: - let such a one be dismissed!