The term literally means to get the doors, windows and even the whole house fixed before it rains. Choumou (绸缪) means “wrap and bind” with an extended meaning of “repair.” The term is a metaphorical way of saying to get ready for any unexpected events beforehand. It does not mean to prevent accidents from happening, but to prepare for possible occurrences rather than reacting to something “unexpected.” It requires that people should not be limited by what they see in the current situation, but be able to anticipate possible changes or future situations and get prepared ahead of time. It is similar to the concepts “think forward and deep” and “prepare for an accident before it happens.” The term underscores proactive behavior on the part of people or the changing nature of an overall dynamic situation.

One’s actions will not have a far-reaching effect if they are not well thought out and planned. When others covet small profits, I seek big benefits; when others focus on what’s close by, I devote my attention to what lies ahead. Get prepared for a rainy day is what wise people do. Zhang Juzheng: An Incomplete Book on Strategies and Tactics