Sun Tzu for Success by Gerald Michaelson with Steven Michaelson – Book Review

Title and author: Sun Tzu for success by Gerald Michaelson with Steven Michaelson.

Content synopsis:

Sun Tzu’s art of war was written by an ancient warrior-sage in China over 2,500 years ago. It was first inscribed on bamboo strips around 500 BC. C. It is the oldest book ever written. It has been studied by Eastern and Western strategists, both military and non-military, for centuries. It is a deep body of work.

Gerald Michaelson has made a study of the Art of War and its many translations. He has traveled to China many times and has also studied other commentaries on the work. In this book, he applies the lessons of the art of war to personal and business success, both through conceptual translation and example. He is recognized as an expert in this work.

Michaelson explains how Sun Tzu defined, more than two millennia ago, the personal characteristics that define success and victory over the challenges and obstacles of success. He also describes the main success strategies and applies them to non-military applications.

The last section of the book is made up of short essays by entrepreneurs who have applied the Art of War in their work and businesses and have found success through the application.

The Art of War may seem inscrutable to the average reader and may even seem like nothing more than an outdated manual for ancient warriors. In fact, if properly understood and applied, the principles, strategies and wisdom of the art of war have important application outside the military sphere and can be used by anyone to enhance the quest for success.

Readability/Write Quality:

Michaelson’s writing style is easy to follow and well organized. He provides excellent illustrations and explanations.

Author’s Notes:

Gerald Michaelson is the author of Sun Tzu: The Art of War for Managers Y Win the marketing war, both available in multiple languages. He has been invited to China to give a lecture on Sun Tzu and his work. In the book he is helped by Steven Michaelson, who has extensive experience in business and corporate management.

Three great ideas you can use:

There are many good strategies and teachings from Sun Tzu in this book, and as is often the case, it’s hard to pick just three. However, three of interest are:

1. The teacher teaches that to gain an advantage in warfare (conflict, competition) five key factors must be evaluated and compared: moral influence, weather, terrain, commander, and doctrine. Each of these has corollaries in business and commercial activity.

2. Knowing yourself is vital to achieving personal success, including an honest assessment of your strengths and weaknesses; plan for self-improvement and achieving growth through relationships.

3. In addition, personal success requires paying attention to active listening, being considerate, being courageous, practicing discipline, being creative, aiming for high standards, and seeking sound advice from others.

Disclosure Information:

Sun Tzu for success by Gerald Michaelson with Steven Michaelson.

Copyright: 2003 by Gerald Michaelson with Steven Michaelson.

Published by Adams Media.

Overall Rating: Very Good

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