Thirukkural Chapter 68 - Modes of Action

Couplet 671 
The Resolve is counsel's end, If resolutions halt 
In weak delays, still unfulfilled, 'tis grievous fault
Explanation
Consultation ends in forming a resolution (to act); (but) delay in the execution of that resolve is an evil

Couplet 672 
Slumber when sleepy work's in hand beware 
Thou slumber not when action calls for sleepless care
Explanation
Sleep over such (actions) as may be slept over; (but) never over such as may not be slept over

Couplet 673 
When way is clear, prompt let your action be; 
When not, watch till some open path you see
Explanation
Whenever it is possible (to overcome your enemy) the act (of fighting) is certainly good; if not, endeavour to employ some more successful method

Couplet 674 
With work or foe, when you neglect some little thing, 
If you reflect, like smouldering fire, 'twill ruin bring
Explanation
When duly considered, the incomplete execution of an undertaking and hostility will grow and destroy one like the (unextinguished) remnant of a fire

Couplet 675 
Treasure and instrument and time and deed and place of act 
These five, till every doubt remove, think o'er with care exact
Explanation
Do an act after a due consideration of the (following) five, viz money, means, time, execution and place

Couplet 676 
Accomplishment, the hindrances, large profits won 
By effort these compare,- then let the work be done
Explanation
An act is to be performed after considering the exertion required, the obstacles to be encountered, and the great profit to be gained (on its completion)

Couplet 677 
Who would succeed must thus begin first let him ask 
The thoughts of them who thoroughly know the task
Explanation
The method of performance for one who has begun an act is to ascertain the mind of him who knows the secret thereof

Couplet 678 
By one thing done you reach a second work's accomplishment; 
So furious elephant to snare its fellow brute is sent
Explanation
To make one undertaking the means of accomplishing another (similar to it) is like making one rutting elephant the means of capturing another

Couplet 679 
Than kindly acts to friends more urgent thing to do, 
Is making foes to cling as friends attached to you
Explanation
One should rather hasten to secure the alliance of the foes (of one's foes) than perform good offices to one's friends

Couplet 680 
The men of lesser realm, fearing the people's inward dread, 
Accepting granted terms, to mightier ruler bow the head
Explanation
Ministers of small states, afraid of their people being frightened, will yield to and acknowledge their superior foes, if the latter offer them a chance of reconciliation