Sun Tzu wrote, “We shall be unable to turn natural advantages to account unless we make use of local guides.”

You might be strong. You might be smart. You might even be fearless. But none of that matters if you refuse to listen to the people who know the terrain.

In life, business, relationships—whatever your battlefield—you’re walking into unfamiliar territory. And no matter how prepared you think you are, there’s someone out there who knows something you don’t. Someone who's walked those hills before you, who’s slipped on that same muddy path, who’s found the shortcuts, seen the dangers, and survived to tell the tale.

So why go it alone?

Pride tells you to figure it out by yourself. But victory doesn’t care about your ego. Progress doesn’t reward stubbornness. It rewards those who are humble enough to ask, bold enough to listen, and wise enough to learn. That’s what Sun Tzu knew. That’s what all great leaders eventually learn: we rise faster when we’re willing to follow before we lead.

Think about it—every advantage in your life right now, every opportunity, every open door—you won’t fully unlock it unless you get guidance from someone who’s been there. Local guides might be mentors, teachers, colleagues, elders, friends—or even your past self. People who understand the landscape you're in.

You’re trying to build a business? Talk to someone who’s already failed and tried again. You’re navigating a tough season in your personal life? Ask someone who’s walked through the fire and come out stronger. You're chasing a dream? Connect with someone who knows the path and the pitfalls.

That’s not weakness. That’s strategy.

Sun Tzu didn't lead by guessing. He led by gathering intelligence, by leaning on wisdom, by surrounding himself with people who knew what he didn’t. And you should too.

This isn’t about following blindly. This is about being coachable, teachable, open. It’s about learning from the people placed in your life for a reason. It’s about understanding that your mission is still yours—but with the right guidance, your journey gets sharper, faster, more efficient.

So today, ask yourself: who are the local guides I’ve been ignoring? What advice have I brushed off? What help have I been too proud to accept? And what advantages have I left on the table because I thought I could do it all myself?

Because the truth is, you’re capable of amazing things. You have the grit. You have the fire. But your path gets clearer when you stop pretending to know it all—and start walking with those who’ve seen it all.

Use the local guides. Trust the wisdom. Learn the land.

Victory doesn’t just go to the strongest. It goes to the smartest. And the smartest learn from those who’ve gone before.

You’re not alone out here.

Now go find your guide—and keep marching forward.

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