走为上策 illustration

走为上策

If All Else Fails, Retreat

When total defeat is inevitable, preserve strength by withdrawing; retreat keeps the option to fight again.

Aliases
If All Else Fails / Retreat / Defeat Stratagems
Domains
stratagem, negotiation, positioning, competition, conflict

Stratagem Name and Original Text

  • Stratagem Name: 走为上策
  • Original Text: 全师避敌。左次无咎，未失常也。
  • Translation: When total defeat is inevitable, preserve strength by withdrawing; retreat keeps the option to fight again.

How It Works

  • Concise Definition: Preserve strength when victory is no longer realistic.
  • Explanation: Retreat is not the same as surrender.

Usage Example

  • Exit a bad market, protect the team, and regroup around a position worth winning, rather than holding on for appearances.
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