Outperform: The Napoleonic Approach to Mastery

I recently dove deep down the archery and bowhunting rabbit hole. 

Less than a year ago, I shot a hand-me-down bow for the first time and was instantly hooked after flinging my first couple arrows. 

Because I lacked any experience on this subject matter, I pestered and picked the brains of anyone I knew that also did archery. 

Most of them (both friends and acquaintances) have been shooting bows for nearly their entire lives. 

A few of them were able to show me the ropes, and many of them offered me tactical advice and strategic insight on where I should direct my attention towards.

It was crystal clear that all of them were significantly better than me and most of them had decades more of total experience.

Now fast forward 11 months later – after a religious amount of practice, daily consistent action, and obsessive research – this last weekend I competed at my fifth 3D archery tournament this summer (think golf, with a bow and arrow - but instead of holes, 3D foam animals set up at various distances).

Now I didn’t win, not even close, but I did manage to place in the top 15% with over 300 competitors. 

Most of the people at this event live and breathe archery and have been doing it for years. And most of the people that I personally know (and have pestered) who have been bowhunting for their “entire lives” have never even done any type of archery tournament or 3D shoot. 

It’s common for the average bowhunter to practice for a couple weeks prior to hunting season, get ‘dialed in,’ and then rely on their 6 hours of yearly practice (if that) to yield them meat if the opportunity arrives.

* In this example I am only focusing on the archery component of hunting, not considering the hundreds of other factors such scouting, land management, e-scouting, physical preparing, etc. which are also required to be successful that many ignore or put very little effort towards*

Oftentimes we equate total years of experience with mastery, rather than total volume of intense focus. 

Though my experience with a bow is light-years from mastery, this example articulates that total volume of effort, when applied intensely and strategically over a shorter period, can outperform longer periods of less intensive engagement.

This is an example of the Napoleonic Approach to Mastery. 

If you need a bit of history refresher, Napoleon Bonaparte began his military career at a young age, enrolling in the French military academy at Brienne-le-Château. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant of artillery at the age of 16.

Despite his youth, Napoleon demonstrated exceptional talent and ambition, immersing himself in the study of military strategy, history, and artillery tactics. Unlike many of his peers, who might have coasted on the status quo, Napoleon threw himself into his work with unparalleled intensity. He later became the Emperor of France and left an indelible mark on Europe and military strategy. 

Napoleon’s success was not merely a product of his years of service but rather his concentrated efforts, innovative tactics, and relentless focus. 

His story provides a compelling lesson: total volume of work and intense focus can surpass traditional measures of experience.

Here’s a breakdown of how you can use Napoleon’s Approach to outperform your competition whether it be in work, academics, jiu jitsu, or life. 

Key Elements to The Napoleonic Approach

Intensive Study and Preparation: 

Napoleon’s success was built on a deep understanding of military principles and history, which he gained through intensive study. By immersing himself in his craft, he could innovate and adapt classical strategies to contemporary contexts. 

In jiu jitsu, studying techniques, watching high-level matches, and understanding the underlying principles of the art can provide a solid foundation. By dedicating time to learn and understand jiu jitsu deeply, you can develop a more strategic and effective approach to training and competition. Take notes, study, be a student!

This principle applies universally: in any field, deep and focused study can provide a competitive edge.

Innovative and Adapt: 

Traditional measures of experience often come with entrenched habits and outdated methods. Napoleon’s ability to innovate—whether through his use of artillery, his corps system, or his rapid maneuvers—allowed him to outperform more experienced generals. Flexibility and a willingness to adapt are crucial in staying ahead.

In jiu jitsu, being flexible and open to new techniques and strategies is crucial. Instead of relying on a few familiar moves, diversify your training. Experiment with different guards, submissions, and escapes. 

Being adaptable and open to new ideas can give you an edge over opponents who may be more experienced but less innovative.

Decisive Action and Clear Goals: 

Napoleon favored decisive battles that could end campaigns quickly. His ability to concentrate his efforts on key objectives, rather than getting bogged down in prolonged engagements, allowed him to achieve quick and decisive victories. 

In jiu jitsu, this means setting clear goals for your training and competitions. Whether it's improving a specific technique, mastering a new guard, or preparing for a tournament, having clear objectives allows you to concentrate your efforts. Focus on these goals with intensity and purpose, and you’ll see faster progress.

This focus on decisive actions can be applied in business, sports, or personal goals: identifying and concentrating on key areas can lead to significant breakthroughs. Pro tip: Write them down.

Psychological Warfare and Positive Morale:

Napoleon’s understanding of the human element in warfare—how morale and psychology can influence outcomes—was a significant factor in his success. Building confidence, maintaining high spirits, and using psychological tactics to unsettle opponents can be as important as physical or technical skills.

In jiu jitsu, maintaining a positive mindset and building confidence are essential. Believe in your ability to improve and succeed.  Additionally, learn to read your opponents and use psychological tactics to gain an advantage, such as controlling the pace of a match or using feints to create openings.

Applying Napoleon’s Approach

Napoleon’s principles can be translated into modern contexts beyond military strategy. In the business world, for instance, companies that focus intensely on innovation and rapid execution can outmaneuver more established but complacent competitors. Startups often disrupt industries not because they have more experience, but because they apply intense focus and innovative thinking to solve problems differently.

In personal development, adopting Napoleon’s approach of intensive study and decisive action can accelerate growth. Rather than relying on years of experience, individuals can achieve mastery and success through concentrated effort, continuous learning, and the willingness to adapt and innovate.

Conclusion: The Power of Intensive Effort 

Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise to power shows that concentrated effort and innovative thinking can surpass years of experience. 

It’s far too common to believe that years of experience are the primary path to mastery. 

The story of Napoleon Bonaparte teaches us a different lesson: intense, focused effort can surpass traditional measures of experience. 

Apply Napoleon’s approach to any endeavor, and you can achieve remarkable progress in a shorter period.

Own the Process, 

Tim 

Author of Mastery Monday

Student & Founder