9 Principles of Strategy from the Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi

Definition: Success comes from consistent practice, not sudden luck.

Example: "If I want to ace exams, I need to study regularly, not cram the night before."

Application: Set a daily habit, like studying for 30 minutes every day, even if you don’t feel like it. This trains discipline, which wins over talent when it’s consistent.

Definition: Be open to learning many skills because life throws various challenges.

Example: "I realized I could learn something from art class that helps in science—both need patience and creativity."

Application: Try a new skill or subject every month. It could be coding, drawing, or cooking; each skill adds something valuable to your mindset.

Definition: To become truly skilled, learn the basics of everything around you.

Example: "When I understand how each class works—math, science, history—it’s easier to connect ideas and think creatively."

Application: Don’t skip over different subjects; study a bit from each one. Ask yourself, “How does this subject connect with my main goals?”

Definition: Learn from losses, don’t dwell on them. Use them to move forward.

Example: "If I lose a friend or fail a test, I focus on what I learned rather than just feeling bad."

Application: After every failure or setback, write down one thing you learned. Use that lesson to make better decisions next time.

Definition: Use your instincts wisely, especially when you don’t have all the information.

Example: "When I sense someone isn’t being genuine, I pay attention and ask questions instead of just ignoring it."

Application: Practice listening to your intuition. If something feels off, trust yourself enough to investigate further or avoid the situation.

Definition: Look beyond what’s obvious; pay attention to subtle cues.

Example: "I noticed a friend acting different, and instead of brushing it off, I asked them if they were okay. Turns out, they were dealing with a lot."

Application: Notice small things: someone’s tone, mood, or reaction. It helps you understand what’s really happening.

Definition: Small details often reveal big insights.

Example: "If I skip studying little by little, it builds up until I’m behind. Little wins also add up, so I focus on the details."

Application: Stay consistent with small efforts. Whether it’s a single math problem or five minutes of extra studying, small wins add up to big successes.

Definition: Cut out unnecessary activities to make time for what matters.

Example: "Scrolling on TikTok can easily waste hours that I could use for something productive."

Application: List things you do daily, then cross out the ones that don’t help you reach your goals. Replace wasted time with something useful, like reading or exercising.

Problem: You have an important exam in two weeks, but your friends want you to hang out and play games. You want to do well, but you also don’t want to disappoint your friends.

6. Develop Intuitive Judgment: Check in with yourself about balance—study hard, but don’t burn out.

7. See What Can’t Be Seen: Notice if studying makes you feel more confident and less stressed.

8. Pay Attention to the Little Things: Stick to small habits, like reviewing notes each day.

9. Do Nothing Which is of No Use: Cut out distractions during your study time; keep your focus sharp.

1. Don’t Think Dishonestly: Admit to yourself you need to study; this is your priority. Focus on what’s important for your future.
2. The Way is in Training: Set a study schedule you can stick to. Every day, study a bit, even if it’s 20 minutes.
3. Know Every Art: Mix different study techniques, like reviewing, taking notes, and testing yourself.
4. Know the Ways of All Professions: Understand why studying different subjects is important for your goals.
5. Distinguish Between Gain and Loss: If you have to miss one hangout, remind yourself it’s for something that benefits you long-term.