Written by During our black belt class, we go over passages from The Book of Five Rings each week. This past week, we discussed “annoying” your opponent such in a way to keep them off guard during battle. “By striking unexpectedly and decisively at locations where the enemy is unprepared can unsettle their thoughts”. In other words, by being unpredictable. It dawned on me that this not only applies to martial arts, but to every day life. Being unpredictable in a lot of ways can help us “achieve” victory in life. If something isn’t working the way you want it to, try a different way. Maybe your job is making you unhappy, try changing jobs or perhaps try to change the way you do your job. In this way, we sometimes discover that the daily tasks we perform are not as mundane as we first thought, and that brings self-satisfaction. Maybe you are disappointed in your overall health. Try a new diet or exercise plan. Our bodies actually get used to our calorie intake and usage and gravitate towards a set weight. In order to lose weight, you need a varied diet as well as varied exercises. Albert Einstein is quoted as saying, “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results”. If we truly want different results, we have to try new things. Be unpredictable.
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Good ideas on trying new things. We are never too old to try a new hobby. For example I tried archery for the first time. If I practiced I might be good at it. I would be willing to try paddle boarding again if I had lessons.