[October 23, 2017] Those folks who’ve lived in times of great chaos and survived have a certain level of awe and respect that surrounds them. Much has been written and stories told of those times where people endured a crisis, tradgedy, confusion, and uncertainty, only to emerge as victors over chaos.
“You never want a serious crisis to go to waste. And what I mean by that is an opportunity to do things that you think you could not do before.” – Rahm Emanuel, mayor of Chicago
I was first introduced to “new” tactics on the battlefield when speaking with several Korean War veterans. Early in the war their experiences told them that whenever there was confusion in battle their unit would take severe casualties. Later in the war they prayed for battlefield chaos because their enemy, the “Norks” (N.Korean soldiers), were just as confused and more likely to surrender if attacked with sufficient determination.
Chaos can be the prelude to great destruction while it can also create tremendous opportunity. This is, of course, well known among experienced leaders since chaos creates confusion among our enemies (or competitors) as well and provides leaders with the ability to jump out ahead of others.
As far back into ancient history where written records exist, the idea that chaos creates opportunity can be found. From Sun Tsu to Plato to modern philosophers, historians, generals, and political leaders, they all recognize the truth in this. It would do us well that we learn this lesson and hold it for the day we must play that card.