The Bushido Code For Modern Professional Leadership

I’m a practicing martial artist with an array of styles, studies, and training – if I have a religion it would be the cumulative makeup of the positive guiding principles that I’ve found in training, peer discussion and mentoring, and forever being a humble student. The most prevalent among them is The Bushido Code. I do NOT claim to fully understand, or comprehend the meaning of any subject, certainly not one as vast and layered in conflict, resolution, and hundreds of years of interpretation — that said, anyone, can and should take meaning from a study that benefits them into a better member of society.

The Bushido Code, also known as the Way of the Warrior, was a set of principles that governed the conduct of the Samurai, the noble warriors of feudal Japan. Today, the Bushido Code still serves as a guide for many modern-day leaders, particularly in the world of business.

At the core of the Bushido Code are seven virtues: rectitude or justice, benevolence or mercy, politeness, honesty and sincerity, honor, loyalty, and character and self-control. Understanding how these principles can be applied to professional business leadership.

Rectitude or Justice

Rectitude, or justice, is the virtue of being upright and fair. In the workplace, great leaders should desire change, or at a basic level, a questioning nature from peers. Employees that seek to professionally question, suggest, and ask "why?" should be valued. Leaders who are willing to listen to all viewpoints, even if they disagree with them, and make decisions based on the best interests of the company as a whole.

Benevolence or Mercy

Benevolence, or mercy, is the virtue of showing kindness and compassion. Great leaders seek to better themselves by being both a teacher and a student. They are approachable and humble, always looking for ways to help their team members grow and develop. They take time to motivate, train, and reposition peers if necessary to leverage and maximize their strengths while supporting and training them on their weaknesses.

Politeness

Politeness is the virtue of being courteous and respectful. In the workplace, leaders should treat their employees with respect, acknowledging their unique talents and perspectives. They must never assume that a peer should know anything that they do. Employees are fingerprints of knowledge and often may understand topics, modalities, or solutions on levels for which they do not. Communication is key to centering understanding.

Honesty and Sincerity

Honesty and sincerity are the virtues of being truthful and genuine. Leadership at the highest levels needs to be brave. Bravery comes in countless forms such as transparency when things are going right and going wrong. Taking feedback from all parties and seeking to lead with logical outcomes that are based on the best intentions of the collective totality of the group, and not singular parties or groups. Great leaders must be truthful in their communications with their employees and must act with integrity in all their dealings.

Honor

Honor is the virtue of upholding one's word and living up to a high moral standard. Leaders must protect their staff from unnecessary adversity such as internal toxic employees, toxic clients, and controllable circumstances that, while they may be fiscally viable, are not in the best interest of keeping the "body" of an organization healthy. Leaders who act with honor will build trust with their employees and earn their respect.

Loyalty

Loyalty is the virtue of being faithful and committed. In the workplace, leaders must be loyal to their employees and to the company's mission and values. They must foster a sense of community and encourage their team members to work together towards a common goal. Leaders who are loyal to their employees will inspire them to work hard and stay committed to the company's vision.

Character and Self-Control

Character and self-control are the virtues of maintaining a strong moral compass and having the ability to govern oneself. Leaders must lead by example, demonstrating the virtues of the Bushido Code in their actions and decisions. They must have the self-control to make difficult decisions and to keep their emotions in check. Leaders who exhibit strong character and self-control will inspire their team members to do the same.

Modern Application, Training, and Preparedness

Just as the Samurai were guided by a strict code of conduct, modern-day leaders must adhere to a set of values that promote fairness, compassion, and integrity. By doing so, we can create a workplace culture that is both productive and fulfilling for our employees.

One Japanese term that is particularly relevant to the Bushido Code is "kaizen," which means continuous improvement. Great leaders SHOULD always be looking for ways to improve themselves and our organizations, and we must encourage our employees to do the same. By fostering a culture of kaizen, leaders can create an environment where everyone is committed to learning and growing.

Another important term is "omotenashi," which means hospitality or customer service. In the world of business, great leaders understand that the customer is king, and they go above and beyond to ensure that their customers are satisfied. By embracing the principles of omotenashi, leaders can create a customer-centric culture that fosters loyalty and trust.

The Bushido Code offers a powerful set of principles that can guide modern-day leaders in the world of business. By embracing the virtues of rectitude, benevolence, politeness, honesty and sincerity, honor, loyalty, and character, and self-control, leaders can build strong, successful organizations that inspire their employees to do their best work. By incorporating Japanese thought practices like kaizen and omotenashi into our leadership style, we can create a workplace culture that is both productive and fulfilling for our employees.

Be Fearless In Death For Valor Over Gain

The Bushido Code places a high value on courage and fearlessness, which were qualities that the Samurai believed were essential for success both in battle and in everyday life. Samurai warriors were trained to face death with dignity and to never fear it, as it was seen as an inevitable part of life. In the world of business, this philosophy translates to being forthright and honest, even if it means risking short-term gain. Leaders who are willing to take a stand for what is right, even in the face of opposition, will earn the respect and admiration of their employees and customers alike.

In contrast, leaders who prioritize personal gain over honesty and integrity may achieve short-term success, but they will ultimately fail in the long run. Just as a Samurai who flees from battle will be forever branded a coward, a leader who is dishonest and lacks integrity will be unable to earn the trust and loyalty of their employees and customers. By embracing the principles of the Bushido Code and placing a high value on honesty, integrity, and fearlessness, modern-day leaders can build successful organizations that stand the test of time.