Oneness in Combat
In combat, one should not distinguish between inner and outer attitudes; instead, focus solely on defeating the enemy and perfecting technique. This oneness of purpose and action leads to effective performance.
THE IDEA
IN OTHER SCHOOLS
The difference between a warrior’s victory in combat and an exemplary artistic performance is that in art the outcome does not include the death of a dancer in the dance or the death of the musician in the performance, while, in combat, the reality is that the outcome is decided with the death of the enemy or yourself.
I do not like inner and outer attitudes. They are detrimental to understanding the true nature of the universe, which is oneness. Why confuse yourself with definitions of what you think the “spirit of the thing itself ” should be doing?
When I teach beginners, I concentrate on developing technique and make little mention of deeper principles. They are not necessary and intellectual exercises tend to limit the student’s progress. Only later, when they are able to understand that fighting is not an intellectual exercise (although the aesthetics involved in executing specific techniques call for a strong and intelligent spirit), will I go into the deeper meaning of things.
If you concern yourself with an “inner” and an “outer” attitude, you will only interfere with your timing and your rhythm. It is best to concentrate only on killing the enemy and attaining perfection in yourself and your technique.
When to use it
A soldier in combat must focus solely on the objective, not on self-doubt or external judgments.
A public speaker can avoid nervousness by concentrating on the message and the audience's response rather than on their own performance anxiety.
In business negotiations, focusing on the desired outcome rather than on internal feelings or external appearances can lead to better results.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Combat vs Art
The outcome of combat includes death, unlike art where the performer does not die. Combat strategy therefore demands seriousness and absolute focus.
Teaching Beginners
Beginners are taught technique without deeper principles to avoid intellectual interference; deeper meaning is introduced later when they can understand that fighting is not an intellectual exercise.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
How can you apply the principle of oneness to your own high-stakes tasks, ignoring self-consciousness about inner vs outer attitudes?
In what areas of your life do you create artificial distinctions between 'inner' and 'outer' that might hinder performance?
How might a focus on the ultimate goal (like 'killing the enemy') simplify decision-making in business or personal challenges?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Musashis book of five rings the definitive interpretation of Miyamoto Musashis classic book of strategy (Kaufman, SteveMiyamoto, Musashi)