This is the second of my two articles on communication.
I am assuming you have already read my first article. Please do so or you will not understand the context. The link to my first article is below:
This second article explains how to deal with slow learners and also how to maintain discipline when you are in a position of power. It is taken from The Art of War by Sun Tzu (as edited by James Clavell).
According to Clavell this book by Sun Tzu shows to way to victory in all sorts of conflicts – whether in business, your job or relationships. Clavell in his foreword to the above book tells the story of how the art of war can be applied to women.
Sun Tzu was given command of 180 palace ladies through whom the King wanted to test Sun Tzu’s philosophy. The ladies refused to drill in the way Sun Tzu ordered them to. Sun Tzu then stated: “If the orders are not clearly understood then the general is to blame.” He then repeated his commands and made sure that the women understood them. But the ladies still once more burst into fits of laughter when they were ordered to drill.
Sun Tzu then said: “If the generals orders are clear and the soldiers nevertheless disobey then it is the fault of the officers”. So saying, he ordered the leaders of the two companies to be beheaded.
When this had been done the drill commenced again. This time the girls went through all the evolutions with perfect accuracy and precision not venturing to say a word.
The basic point is that it is the responsibility of the general (or the superior in any position) to make sure that the orders are understood. Similarly, when communicating with slow (or rebellious) children it is necessary that we must make sure that we have made ourselves understood. If they still disobey it is necessary to punish.
There is an Indian saying which summarises how to deal with difficult people. The Hindi words of the saying are – Saam, Daam, Dand, Bhed.
The modern global diplomacy revolves around the principle of ‘Saam, Daam, Dand, Bhed’ (persuade, purchase, punish, and exploit the weakness or sow discord).
I think it should definitely be possible for us to communicate and discipline our associates and subordinates using both Sun Tzu’s maxims and this Hindi aphorism. It is possible that you do not need much more than these basic truths in order to have a successful and happy career as well as family life.
In ending I would encourage everybody to read Sun Tzu. Quoting from James Clavell –
Sun Tzu’s truths, contained herein, can equally show the way to victory in all kinds of ordinary business conflicts, boardroom battles and the day to day fight for survival we all endure – even in the battle of the sexes. They are all forms of war, all fought under the same rules – his rules.
If this seems too bloodthirsty for you, I will mention two more of Sun Tzu’s maxims:
- Humanity and justice are the principles on which to govern a state
- The true object of war is peace
I’ll end here. Please comment on this article if you liked it or even if you didn’t. Feedback from my readers keeps me going.
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