51. For it is the soldier’s disposition to offer an obstinate resistance when surrounded, to fight hard when he cannot help himself, and to obey promptly when he has fallen into danger.

故兵之情圍則禦不得已則鬥過則從

Sun Tzu

Sun Tzu is describing the natural tendencies of soldiers in battle. He notes that soldiers will often put up a strong resistance when they are surrounded, or when they are in a situation where they cannot easily escape. This is because they are trained to fight to the best of their ability, even in difficult circumstances.

Sun Tzu also notes that soldiers will generally obey orders promptly when they find themselves in danger. This is because they are disciplined and understand the importance of following orders in a military setting. By following orders, soldiers can work together effectively and achieve their objectives.

For it is the employee's disposition to offer a diligent effort when challenged, to work hard when faced with difficult tasks, and to follow leadership promptly when faced with challenges or obstacles. 

It is natural for people to want to rise to challenges and overcome them, and this is especially true in a work setting. When faced with difficult tasks, employees will feel more motivated to put in extra time and effort in order to complete the task successfully. This may involve seeking out additional resources or guidance, or working outside of regular hours to ensure that the task is completed to the best of their ability.

Challenging work can be a great motivator for employees because it offers them the chance to learn new skills, push themselves and test their abilities, and feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when they complete the work successfully. It allows employees to stretch their abilities, expand their knowledge and experience, and grow both personally and professionally. In addition, tackling difficult tasks and overcoming obstacles can be a source of pride and self-esteem, which can boost morale and engagement. Overall, challenging work can foster a sense of purpose and meaning, which can be a powerful driver for employees.

When faced with challenging work, employees are more likely to follow leadership and seek out direction in order to successfully complete the task. This may involve working closely with supervisors or managers, or taking on additional responsibilities as needed.

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