Tet Offensive and the Vietnam War

Date: January 1968
Event: North Vietnamese Army launched the Tet Offensive, a surprise attack on American forces.
Significance of Tet: Traditionally a ceasefire period, similar to a Christmas truce.
Scale: 85,000 troops attacked over 125 U.S. and allied targets in Vietnam.
Outcome: United States repelled all attacks, lost fewer than 1,000 troops; North Vietnamese lost 35,000.
Perspective: Despite winning many battles, the U.S. lost the war due to strategic misalignment.

Finite vs. Infinite Games

Finite Games:
- Known players, fixed rules, agreed objectives.
- Example: Football.
Infinite Games:
- Known and unknown players, changeable rules, objective to perpetuate the game.
- Example: Cold War.
Conflict: When a finite player (U.S.) meets an infinite player (Vietnam), strategies differ, leading to quagmire.

Business & Politics:
- No clear 'winner'; the focus should be on continuous improvement.
- Example: Microsoft vs. Apple
  - Microsoft focused on beating Apple.
  - Apple focused on improving their product.

Just Cause:
- Why does your organization exist?
- A vision for the future, attracting people who believe in the cause.
- Example: Declaration of Independence.
Courageous Leadership:
- Leaders willing to sacrifice short-term gain for long-term benefits.
- Ensure decisions align with the just cause.
Trusting Teams:
- Create an environment where people can speak up without fear.
- Example: United Airlines vs. Southwest Airlines.
Worthy Rival:
- Competition reveals weaknesses.
- Focus on self-improvement instead of beating the competition.
Flexible Playbook:
- Adapt strategies as needed while staying true to the vision.

Microsoft vs. Apple:
- Microsoft obsessed with competition.
- Apple focused on supporting teachers and students.