MY.MANIFESTO serves as a tool to outline the philosophies and belief systems of the most prolific thinkers throughout history.

Our first in this series highlights Japanese swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, acclaimed author of The Book of Five Rings - a guide to his tactics, strategies, and philosophies on life. Musashi’s writings are recommended by business moguls and self help gurus worldwide.

The following passage, The Way of Walking Alone, was written a week before Musashi died in 1645. This personal manifesto expresses a stringent, honest, and ascetic view of life in 21 powerful principles.

Accept everything just the way it is.



Do not seek pleasure for its own sake.



Do not, under any circumstances, depend on a partial feeling.



Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world.



Be detached from desire your whole life.



Do not regret what you have done.



Never be jealous.



Never let yourself be saddened by a separation.



Resentment and complaint are appropriate neither for oneself nor others.



Do not let yourself be guided by the feeling of lust or love.



In all things, have no preferences.



Be indifferent to where you live.



Do not pursue the taste of good food. [Do not overindulge.]



Do not hold on to possessions you no longer need.



Do not act following customary beliefs.



Do not collect weapons or practice with weapons beyond what is useful.



Do not fear death.



Do not seek to possess either goods or fiefs for your old age.



Respect Buddha and the gods without counting on their help. [Respect the belief systems of others.]



You may abandon your own body but you must preserve your honour.



Never stray from the way.