"Success lies in practicality, not in elaborate schemes," is a principle that summarizes Zeng Guofan’s long-term experience in real-life military campaigns. In the early days, he established the Xiang Army and achieved several victories. However, during the Battle of Jiujiang in Jiangxi, his naval forces were almost entirely destroyed, marking a major setback. After this defeat, Zeng Guofan reflected deeply on his past mistakes and formulated the guiding principle of "practical success, less reliance on complex strategies." This shift in thinking became a turning point in his career, leading him from repeated failures to eventual victory over the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, earning him a legendary status.
The Chinese have always had a deep admiration for grand strategies. Figures like Liu Bang, who managed to gather the best talents and rule for centuries, were not always popular with the people. Similarly, Zhuge Liang, though limited in geographical scope, was widely praised for his wisdom. This cultural tendency has led many to chase after dramatic plans rather than focusing on practical execution.
A steady and realistic approach, with minimal use of complex plots, may seem "solid" or even slow, but it avoids major mistakes. While opponents might find it rigid or too cautious, it helps prevent systemic risks. Though it may not appear innovative at first, once it identifies the right direction, it pushes forward relentlessly, leaving competitors behind. It might not hire the most brilliant minds, yet it can turn ordinary people into high performers. Even if an opponent overwhelms it locally or temporarily, it remains stable, and any small mistake by the competitor could quickly make it the market leader.
This philosophy also applies to regional market operations. When comparing strong and weak markets, the key difference isn't in promotional tactics, display methods, or brand image. It's in the layout of the retail outlets and product selection.
In strong markets, stores are usually well-organized, occupying prime locations with full product ranges, reasonable pricing, and clear promotional goals—often aimed at countering competition or managing inventory.
In contrast, weak markets tend to focus on minor details, chasing flashy promotions and novel gimmicks. The goal is often purely for short-term gains. I remember when I first joined the company, a branch manager complained that all the promotions were just discounts, gifts, and free samples—three common tricks used to attract customers. This reflects a mindset that prioritizes quick wins over long-term stability.
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