Camouflage

Sun Tzu, in 'The Art of War,' stated: 'The strategy of war hinges on cunning and the creation of illusions.' The art of creating illusions has been a companion to humanity for ages. If you wish to gain the upper hand, mislead your opponent. If you are weak, pretend to be strong; if strong, feign weakness. Nothing works better than a disoriented adversary. Companies struggling with sales often employ the 'empty warehouse' tactic. Leaders, who give the impression of being perpetually busy, are in reality attempting to boost their own value. Numerous 'wise books' advocate for such tactics. In 'The 48 Laws Of Power,' Robert Greene even suggests it's a superpower. Indeed, often this manipulation works exceedingly well. Seeing its positive effects, leaders begin to apply the principles of camouflage in all their operations.

This is not yet a terrible problem, or a sin, when used to increase sales. However, when these methods are applied in working with people, it can prove destructive. A leader who pretends to know everything, changing subordinates' decisions just to show who's in charge, is harmful. Actions that promote diversity merely because it's a corporate trend are also damaging. The most catastrophic consequences arise when changes are made simply because others are doing them, hoping such camouflaging actions will suffice to 'tick the box.'

On the border of Ethiopia and Somalia, in the western part of the Omo Valley, live tribes that have mastered the art of camouflage for survival. Their colors, postures, and movements imitate nature. These tribes, often deemed primitive, don’t consider their camouflage art as merely a means to be politically correct.

This photo was taken in the Omo Valley in 2016, Ethiopia.

I dedicate it to all those who use camouflage to surprise an opponent, not to manipulate their team.