Sun Tzu, Defense, and Offense

Quick note: if you have not read previous articles, please do so before continuing to read this one. The structure of this series builds on itself with every article. Important context will be missed if read out of order.

Now that we have laid down some foundation to the mindset of a halal investor, let’s start preparing ourselves for moving forward. Sun Tzu says: “Standing on the defensive indicates insufficient strength; attacking a superabundance of strength.” The lesson from this quote fits perfectly in where we are in this series. We have spoken about how the first order of business is setting up an emergency fund, a defensive move. Next, we spoke about setting your expectations in a way that helps you to keep moving forward instead of deflating you or discourage you from continuing to invest. Also a defensive move. Third, we spoke about the need for constant evolution. While all of these are critical in my opinion, taken by themselves are insufficient for success. This brings me to another saying by Sun Tzu: “The consummate leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in his power to control success.”

The consummate investor, more specifically the halal (or ethical) investor, cultivates the moral and legal laws set by Allah to help him/her make the right investing decisions. The outside or shallow view can be that by adhering to what is halal or haram (ethical or unethical) is restricting, but in fact, it is where true power lies to control for your ability to succeed. Discipline is freedom. Discipline in your diet allows you to enjoy desserts more. Discipline in finances allows you to splurge on occasion. Discipline in holding your tongue when angry allows you to cultivate loving relationships that give you the benefit of the doubt when you do slip and say something in a fit of anger.

With that said, going back to the first quote in the article, we must set ourselves up to act. Now comes the time where we begin to take steps forward to discover what to invest in. Now comes the time to do research and make informed decisions towards where, what, and how are we going to do what’s beneficial to ourselves and family’s financial wellbeing, and above all, pleasing to Allah (SWT).

This is where investor clarity comes in. Besides writing articles to inform the public interested in halal investing, we help you gain clarity on how to begin your journey, or if you are already an investor, to review your investing strategy and get an independent second opinion.

InshAllah you find this informative and useful. Thank you for reading. Keep searching forward.