Transition Fit Over Merit / 过渡期适任优先于功劳
Transition fit over merit / 过渡期适任优先于功劳 is the organization-politics lesson in 《资治通鉴·周纪》08丨一代名将吴起惨死（1）. 吴起 argues from achievement: command of armies, internal administration, treasury strength, frontier defense, and deterrence against rival states. 田文 answers from timing: a new ruler, suspicious ministers, and unsettled public confidence need stabilizing authority more than aggressive reforming brilliance.
The concept separates contribution from suitability. Wu Qi may be more capable by many operational measures, but the episode presents that capability as potentially risky during succession. A strong, ambitious, reform-minded figure can increase uncertainty exactly when a polity needs trust and continuity.
The source makes the idea legible through a modern company analogy: a leadership change can make colleagues and subordinates watch for power shifts, hidden agendas, and sudden restructuring. In that setting, the best performer may not be the safest transition leader.
Key Claims
- Merit and office fit are different judgments.
- Succession moments raise the value of trust, continuity, and perceived restraint.
- A high-capability actor can become a political risk if their ambition or reputation increases uncertainty.
- Stable transition leadership can be a temporary but decisive contribution.