20 Life Lessons from an Undefeated Samurai Warrior

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When you eat, think of the food as fuel for your body. Thinking of food this way prevents overindulgence and gluttony.

You don’t have to overdo it to receive adequate nutrition. Please don’t abuse the pleasure of food because Musashi understood and made it a life lesson that food is a tool to obtain good health.

14. Take on a Minimalist Lifestyle

You don’t need lots of material possessions to be happy in life. Get rid of things you don’t need in life to focus on simple living. Avoid becoming attached to frivolous items, and you will obtain clarity and be present.

15. Learn to Form Your Own Opinions

Musashi didn’t believe everything he heard, and you shouldn’t either. Don’t follow the crowd, and be sure to follow your ideas and opinions. Your opinions might not be favorable or supported by others, but stick to your path anyway.

16. Be Respectful but Don’t Rely on the Guidance of Others

Musashi respected the gods but didn’t rely only on their guidance. He knew that he must save himself and follow his path rather than wait for answers from the gods. Likewise, he showed respect to everyone around him too.

When you’re respectful to others, it brings order and harmony to your life. However, you sometimes have to turn down their opinions. While they might mean well, their guidance can’t lead you down the path intended for you. That could be one of the toughest life lessons to accept.

17. Don’t Fear Death

If you are afraid of death, you can’t fully live your life. You’ll fear the outcome of risky actions, preventing yourself from living in the present. When you aren’t afraid of death, it helps create a sense of urgency, presence, and ambition.

18. Avoid Using Weapons Unless Necessary

While Musashi was famous for using two swords in many duels, he didn’t do so without reason. Unless your life is on the line, you should never use weapons. Additionally, he believes that the weapon owner must learn to master the tool.

19. Eliminate Distractions and Live in the Moment

Musashi eliminated distractions whenever possible, and you can follow his life lessons and do the same. Get rid of any possessions you don’t need so that you can live in the present each day. When you live a minimalist lifestyle, you can eliminate distractions and focus on the essential aspects of your life.

20. Live with Integrity and Honor

You must follow your beliefs and do what you think is morally correct. When you live with integrity, you’ll never have to wonder if you did the right thing. Musashi knew that living with integrity ensures honor and respect, as well.

Final Thoughts on Life Lessons from an Undefeated Samurai Warrior

While you won’t enter dozens of duels and use swords to win, you can still learn from the life lessons of an undefeated warrior. Musashi offered these life principles to help others find strength and success in life.

By following Musashi’s guidance, you can improve certain aspects of your life. Living by these guidelines can help you find strength, live in the present, and remain honorable and humble.