Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.
Speed is the essence of war. Take advantage of the enemy's unpreparedness; travel by unexpected routes and strike him where he has taken no precautions.
And therefore those skilled in war bring the enemy to the field of battle and are not brought there by him.
[I]n war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.