Counter an Attack
A heuristic describing three methods to counter an attack in combat: blocking and counterattacking, sidestepping and feinting, and feigning a thrust. The key is to close in and not give the opponent a chance to counter.
THE IDEA
COUNTER AN ATTACK
My three methods of countering an attack apply to sword fighting as well as unarmed combat. One method is to block an attack by diverting the enemy’s sword and continuing to attack right into the enemy’s eyes. Another is to sidestep and feint to the side while firing a strike to the other side of the body. A third method is to feign a thrust and drive straight in to the enemy’s face with a powerful attack. You must attack with the attitude of cutting rather than slashing. It is quite acceptable to attack the enemy with your bare hand in combination with the sword. In any event, you must always close in on the enemy and not give him a chance to counter against you.
When to use it
Self-defense: Using these methods in a physical confrontation.
Sports: Applying the sidestep and feint in fencing or martial arts.
Debate: Using a feigned argument to draw out an opponent's position before striking with a strong rebuttal.
Sales: Countering objections by immediately addressing them and turning them into strengths.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Block and Counterattack
Divert the enemy's sword and continue attacking right into the enemy's eyes.
Sidestep and Feint
Sidestep to the side and feint, then strike to the other side of the body.
Feign Thrust and Attack
Feign a thrust and drive straight in to the enemy's face with a powerful attack.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
How can the principle of 'not giving the enemy a chance to counter' be applied in a competitive debate?
In a negotiation, what would be the equivalent of 'closing in' to prevent the other party from countering?
How do these methods of countering an attack relate to proactive vs reactive strategies in business?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Musashis book of five rings the definitive interpretation of Miyamoto Musashis classic book of strategy (Kaufman, SteveMiyamoto, Musashi)