Miyamoto Musashi, one of history’s greatest swordsmen, left behind 21 rules meant to guide discipline, mindset, and personal mastery. Written over 350 years ago, these principles still hit hard—especially for martial artists.
At their core, Musashi’s rules are about self-control, clarity, and resilience, all things every fighter must develop.
In training, rules like “Accept everything just the way it is” remind us to stop making excuses. Some days you’re strong, some days you’re tired—either way, the work gets done. Progress comes from honesty, not ego.
“Do not let yourself be guided by the feeling of pleasure or pain” speaks directly to fighting. Whether you’re exhausted in the final round or uncomfortable learning a new technique, growth happens when you stay present instead of chasing comfort.
Musashi also warned against attachment—to possessions, outcomes, or reputation. In MMA, clinging to a single style, a win-loss record, or outside validation can hold you back. The best fighters stay adaptable, humble, and focused on improvement.
Beyond the gym, these rules apply to daily life. Discipline beats motivation. Consistency beats intensity. Calm thinking beats emotional reactions. Whether you’re training for a fight, running a business, or handling family responsibilities, the same mindset applies.
Musashi’s message is simple but powerful: master yourself first. Do that, and everything else—on the mats and off—starts to fall into place.
Accept everything just the way it is
Reality is the starting point. In fighting and life, denial delays progress.Do not seek pleasure for its own sake
Growth comes from discipline, not comfort. Train even when motivation is low.Do not depend, in any circumstance, on a partial feeling
Emotions lie. Skill and preparation win fights—not moods.Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world
Drop ego. Stay curious. Learn from everyone.Be detached from desire your whole life long
Wanting results too badly creates tension and mistakes.Do not regret what you have done
Learn, adjust, move forward. Regret wastes energy.Never be jealous
Someone else’s success doesn’t limit yours. Focus on your path.Never let yourself be saddened by a separation
Losses, breakups, and endings are part of the journey.Resentment and complaint are appropriate neither for oneself nor others
Complaining is weakness disguised as explanation.Do not let yourself be guided by lust or love
Emotions shouldn’t override judgment—especially under pressure.In all things, have no preferences
Be adaptable. Don’t cling to one style, technique, or outcome.Be indifferent to where you live
Comfort zones limit growth. Progress requires discomfort.Do not pursue the taste of good food
Master appetite. Control small habits to control bigger ones.Do not hold on to possessions you no longer need
Let go of what weighs you down—physically and mentally.Do not act following customary beliefs
Tradition is useful, but truth comes from testing and experience.Do not collect weapons or practice with weapons beyond what is useful
Depth beats excess. Master what matters.Do not fear death
Fearlessness brings clarity—inside the cage and in life.Do not seek to possess either goods or fiefs for your old age
Don’t build your life around security alone—build skill and character.Respect Buddha and the gods without counting on their help
Believe if you choose—but do the work yourself.You may abandon your own body but you must preserve your honor
Integrity matters more than comfort.Never stray from the Way
Stay committed to your path, even when it’s hard or lonely.
