Lessons from Miyamoto Musashi and the risks we accept in life
In everyone’s career, there is always an inherent risk. It doesn’t matter what profession; everyone accepts up to some level of risk. Why? Risk is there whether we like it or not. However, the best in each professional field is adept at lowering that risk as much as possible. They focus on it, so they have safety across all categories.
Miyamoto Musashi was a famous Japanese swordsman known for being undefeated in 62 duels. Before his death in 1645, he wrote “The Book of Five Rings.” It is a treatise on swordsmanship, strategy, and winning in martial arts and beyond. Modern translations have used Musashi's teachings and applied them to various aspects of life, like business, leadership, and personal development. The overarching theme is preparedness. Understanding strategy, controlling the mind and body, and being versatile and adaptable are some of the key elements Musashi focuses on.
As we navigate our careers and personal lives, we often accept a certain level of risk in some domains while shying away from it in others. For instance, we may embrace the uncertainty of starting a new job or embarking on a business venture, believing that the potential rewards outweigh the risks. On the other hand, we may approach our health or relationships with a more defensive mindset, fearing change and potential loss. This dichotomy creates a gap in our preparedness—a fundamental lesson reinforced throughout Musashi's work.
Accepting risk in certain areas while neglecting others can be dangerous. It creates a false sense of security. Consider an employee who invests heavily in developing their professional skills but neglects their physical health due to a busy schedule. They might excel at advancing their career, yet the risk of burnout or health complications could not only impede their long-term success and happiness but also prevents them from being able to physically protect themselves or their family. Musashi emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded approach; to truly thrive, we must prepare ourselves holistically, acknowledging that risks exist in every facet of life.
Moreover, human nature often leads us to underestimate risks associated with the domains we prioritize less. We might think, “I can always make time for health later” or “my relationships can handle a little neglect.” This mindset fosters complacency and can lead to significant setbacks that are often irreversible. Musashi teaches us that maintaining vigilance across all areas of life is paramount—just as a swordsman remains cognizant of their surroundings and always maintains the edge of their blade.
To cultivate a mindset of preparedness, we must continually assess our environment, remain adaptable, and confront risks head-on. Just as Musashi would practice tirelessly to refine his skills, we too must engage in self-reflection and proactive planning in all areas of life—career, health, relationships, and beyond. The goal is to become not just skilled in risk management but adept at living fully, recognizing that true preparedness means acknowledging vulnerabilities across the spectrum.
In doing so, we empower ourselves to respond effectively to the unexpected, leveraging our awareness and strategies to navigate life's challenges. By accepting risk wisely and preparing comprehensively, we honor the teachings of Musashi and embrace a life of greater resilience, where we can thrive even amid uncertainty.
