Think like a Samurai - 7 lessons for entrepreneurs inspired by Miyamoto Musashi

I was first introduced to sixteenth-century Japanese warrior Miyamoto Musashi while reading Ryan Holiday’s — The Obstacle is the Way, a very inspiring book that I enjoyed a lot and I encourage you to read if you either interested to self-improvement or philosophy in general.

Musashi (c.1584–1645) is a legendary Samurai known for his mastery of the Martial Arts and his unique, yet perfect style. indeed, he fought over 60 duels and was never defeated, and the man’s wisdom certainly had a lot to do with the fact that he stayed unbeaten.

The Book of Five Rings has been written by Musashi itself during his old days meditating in, the original purpose of the book was to teach his disciples the true Way of the Martial Arts, but the philosophy and strategy of the man is also an infinite source of inspiration in every aspect of life such as business and work.

Musashi insisted that through an intense study and practice of the Way of the Martial Arts, the Ways of all other arts would be understood, in fact, he was also a talented painter, metallurgist, and poet. He also insisted on the importance of real experience, and the reader should not miss the fact that the phrase: “You should investigate thoroughly” is repeated more than any other in the book.

Miyamoto Musashi wants the reader to cut through any obstacle in life vigorously, but always by taking a step back.

1. “No matter what a well-trained person does, he never appears hurried.”

Learning and practicing is key to mastering a specific competence - even more when your discipline is Martial Arts and sword-fighting. A person with a strong expertise always seems more confident while dealing with adversity, on the other hand, it’s hard to trust someone who looks uncomfortable and unsure.

2. “There is observation and there is seeing. The eye of observation is strong. The eye of seeing is weak.”

It is easy to see what is large or obvious, and difficult to see what is small and implies reflexion. However, in all kind of disciplines, the attention to details and the process of analyzing can make you see things that others don’t even suspect.

3. “Putting the mind in one place is called falling into one-sidedness.”

It’s important to focus on a project and follow your instinct. Still, being aware of what’s happening around you and questioning your choices when it seems necessary is also key and can allow you to solve problems and overcome obstacles. Also, GET FEEDBACK.

4. “Water follows the form of either an angular or round container; it becomes either a drop or a great sea.”

Adapt, always, when you speak to someone, try to understand his point of view, when an unexpected event turns your confidence upside down, don’t stress out, take a breath and organize yourself so you can take advantage of the situation. Industry can be really volatile, as well as your coworkers/associates moods. You need to have strong foundations to be agile and resilient though, and it echoes the first quote I mentioned.

5. “A large group of people is difficult to change quickly, but an individual has one mind, and that can change speedily.”

That one sounds pretty clear and straightforward. Segment your market in order to dominate a small but profitable niche. Try to convince people one by one so they’ll give echo to your ideas. Also, don’t bother to convince the ones who are automatically repellent to the message you want to spread.

6. “Shouting is essential according to the situation. Voice adds the element of energy […] Voice manifests vigor.”

Pygmalion effect, that’s basically why I’m writing this 🙃

7. “If you use a technique on your opponent and it is not successful the first time, it will have no effect to attack him once more with the same move.”

Don’t bother making the same inefficient choices over and over. If the action A doesn’t help you to achieve your goal, go on and try action B. Test and learn so you can save time and the solution that suits you best.

This post basically sums up the way I interpreted some wise words that are centuries old. I found funny that you can take advice from a legendary samouraï for dealing with adversity in your entrepreneur journey.

Have you read this book? Did you love it? Don’t hesitate to tell me in the comments, I would be happy to discuss it!