This concept means that the ideal way to win a war is not through fighting. The purpose of starting a war is to defeat the enemy; but defeating the enemy does not necessarily require a war, nor is war the ultimate means to triumph over the enemy. Direct use of force is the last resort, not the preferred option. In the face of conflict and rivalry, one should develop more effective ways of winning victory without using force. Strive to fully prepare oneself in every way, and make oneself strong enough to respond to all eventualities, to the extent that no opponent will emerge. This is the fundamental way to win victory.