The Art of War, an ancient Chinese military classic by Master Sun Tzu, remains decidedly relevant in our contemporary world, due to its Taoist-based principles aimed at conflict resolution. The 'battle ground' for educators is one which relies on negotiation, conflict resolution and problem solving, but not confrontation. A core principle of The Art of War is candid self-knowledge. Undertaking a teacher diary study based on The Art of War was helpful in bridging the gap between an aesthetic understanding of this classic and its practical application to the challenges I face as an educator.