An interlude

This maxim takes first place among all causes of success: Pursue one great decisive aim with force and determination.

-- Clausewitz, Principles

• Find reality and face it squarely.
• Stay on offense; never be completely passive.
• Inventory what’s known, what’s still good and the assets available.
• Set small achievable milestones.
• Keep your friends close and your debts paid.
• Arrange events to your advantage.
• Take new ground where the old can’t be defended.
• As circumstances are favorable, modify your plans.
• Give everyone a stake in success, both tasks and rewards.
• Avoid mistakes; challenge assumptions.
• Focus resources onto the top priorities; eliminate the unnecessary extravagance.
• Be clear, delegate, then depart; don’t overbear.
• Stay inwardly, outwardly confident.
• Decide the criteria for success in advance, and know when to quit.
• And, in times of economic uncertainty, never ever fuck with another man's livelihood.

Practice the virtues of wisdom, sincerity, benevolence, courage, integrity, and strictness. Not least on yourself. 

-- after Sun Tsu, Art of War