STRATEGYMonths to result

Harnessing the Power of Empty Space

Using weakness as strength

Problem it solves

intense competition or adversity

Best for

Individuals facing intense competition or adversity

Not ideal for

Those who struggle with emotional regulation or self-awareness

Overview

Why this framework exists

Josh Waitzkin discusses how he learned to harness the power of empty space in both chess and martial arts, using his weakness as a strength to overcome his opponents. This framework involves understanding how to utilize empty space to create opportunities and gain an advantage over others.

Core principles

3 total
  1. The power of empty space can be used to create opportunities and gain an advantage.
  2. Weakness can be used as a strength in certain situations.
  3. Understanding how to utilize empty space requires a deep understanding of the context and the opponent's mindset.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Identify the Empty Space
    Recognize the areas where you can create space and allow your opponents to fill it. This requires a deep understanding of the context and the opponent's mindset.
    Pro tipLook for areas where your opponents are overextending themselves or leaving gaps in their defense.
    WarningBe cautious not to create too much space, as this can leave you vulnerable to counterattacks.
  2. Create the Empty Space
    Use your actions to create space and allow your opponents to fill it. This can involve making sacrifices or taking risks to create opportunities.
    Pro tipUse your opponents' momentum against them by creating space and allowing them to overextend themselves.
    WarningBe prepared to adapt and adjust your strategy as the situation evolves.
  3. Utilize the Empty Space
    Use the created space to gain an advantage over your opponents. This can involve launching a counterattack or creating a new opportunity.
    Pro tipStay focused and adaptable, as the situation can change quickly.
    WarningBe cautious not to become too attached to your plan, as this can leave you vulnerable to counterattacks.

Checklist

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Examples

2 cases
Josh Waitzkin's Chess Match

Waitzkin discusses how he learned to harness the power of empty space in a chess match, using his weakness as a strength to overcome his opponent.

OutcomeWaitzkin was able to gain an advantage and win the match.
Josh Waitzkin's Martial Arts Match

Waitzkin discusses how he used the power of empty space in a martial arts match, creating space and allowing his opponent to fill it.

OutcomeWaitzkin was able to gain an advantage and win the match.

Common mistakes

3 traps
Underestimating the Power of Empty Space
Failing to recognize the potential of empty space can lead to missed opportunities and a lack of advantage.
Overextending Yourself
Creating too much space can leave you vulnerable to counterattacks and undermine your position.
Failing to Adapt
Failing to adjust your strategy as the situation evolves can lead to stagnation and a loss of advantage.

Origin story

How this framework came to be

Waitzkin learned this concept through his experiences in chess and martial arts, where he realized that sometimes the best move is to create space and allow his opponents to fill it, rather than directly confronting them.

Source

Traced to primary
Source · PODCAST
The Art of Learning & Living Life | Josh Waitzkin
Andrew Huberman · 2025
Open source →

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