The crucial question isn’t whether you identify as a strategist; instead, it probes the effectiveness of your strategic prowess. Whether acknowledged or not, embraced or overlooked, everyone is, and always has been, a strategist. Strategic thinking becomes a daily practice from the inaugural breath to the final exhale. Yet, for many, the lessons in strategic finesse unfold haphazardly, often slipping by unnoticed.

The proverbial wisdom that age does not inherently guarantee wisdom serves as a cautionary tale, much like the study of conflict management, a discipline not to be dismissed. Another adage—“the more things change, the more that stays the same”—offers advantages to those willing to embrace perpetual learning and improving their lifestyle.

Amidst the instability of times and shifting beliefs, the constants are people or rather their character. Customs evolve, weapons transform, but the essence of humanity remains unaltered. Extracting lessons from history, offers a pathway to improve as skilled leaders, successful problem solvers, and effective conflict managers.

Understanding this ancient philosophy is central to enhancing modern problem-solving abilities and enriching and harmonizing our lives. Sun Tzu's claim that warfare relies on deception holds universally, past, present, and future. Learning from historical commanders, we grasp the practical application of Sun Tzu's maxims, witnessing how strategy, even in personal endeavours, dictates success.

In the intricate historical narratives, figures like Hanno, Himilco, Cresphontes, Demophon, Cypselus, Acuēs, Cleomenes, Polydorus, Cato, and Ventidius emerge as leaders navigating the delicate balance between leadership and the imperative need for adept problem-solving. The weight of their responsibilities extended beyond personal stakes; it encompassed the lives of those who relied on their guidance and decisions. In potentially lethal challenges and adversities, these leaders found themselves at the nexus of critical choices, where the effectiveness of their decisions not only shaped their destinies but also determined the fates of loyal troops, cities, and states and changed the course of history.

Their leadership was displayed in the crucible of uncertainty, demanding a keen understanding of strategy and a relentless commitment to resolving complex issues that rose above individual concerns. In these conflicts, these leaders etched their names in history as not just individuals who commanded armies or governed regions but astute problem solvers and conflict managers whose choices ripple through time, leaving indelible lessons for those who wish to benefit from their examples.

Hanno demonstrated remarkable prowess by simultaneously imposing his will on two enemies, a seldom-achieved feat. Himilco, facing a Roman blockade, ingeniously employed fire and smoke as tactics. Cresphontes, in a pivotal moment, utilized a clever deception to alter history and avert bloodshed among his brothers allotting government of the Peloponnese. The shrewd Demophon tricked the wise and courageous Agamemnon with a fake idol to avoid war. Acuēs devised a strategic change in self-identification to defend Tegea successfully. Cleomenes harnessed the power of an established communications network to outsmart and defeat the Argives. Polydorus concluded a twenty-year war through a combination of Direct and Indirect methods. Ventidius' victory is a masterpiece in using communication to dictate an adversary's actions, revealing the nuanced difference between speed and rapidity. Marcus Porcius Cato showcased the potential of preventing rebellion by simply sending letters.

Our innate inclination for strategy persists from birth to death, manifesting in conflict resolution through design and tactics. This instinct has propelled humanity from caves to condominiums. Sun Tzu’s philosophy extends beyond its military context, offering invaluable guidance for managing conflicts in daily life.