An opportunity, once lost, will never come again; therefore, one must seize the opportune moment without delay. It is crucial to act decisively when a favorable situation arises.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
In 203 BC, Han Xin, a general of the Han dynasty, successfully conquered the State of Qi and was subsequently enfeoffed as the King of Qi by Liu Bang.
Han Xin's advisor, Kuai Tong, observed the prevailing political climate and concluded that Han Xin was in a critically important position. Kuai Tong advised Han Xin against remaining loyal to Liu Bang, urging him instead to establish his own independent kingdom, thereby creating a tripartite division of power among Chu, Han, and himself. Kuai Tong stressed that this was 'an opportunity not to be missed, for time would not come again.'
However, Han Xin chose not to follow Kuai Tong's counsel.