Ego in self defence

Don’t invite a fight, but face it if you have to.

Better to retreat a foot than advance an inch.

(Lao Tzu)

The first line is obvious but the second is more subtle. Lao Tzu is talking about yielding, about letting go of your ego and aggression, of backing down and losing face.

You know that you can fight, so you can walk away in the knowledge that if the assailant forces you to defend yourself, you will. But you would never instigate conflict.

'Advance an inch' refers to the getting-ready process - the telegraphing of your intention. You should be still and silent within, with your body soft and open. Do not prepare to the left or to the right, or your opponent may see it.