“The Japanese Samurai Code: Classic Strategies for Success” by Boye Lafayette De Mente begins with “Bushido, the ethical system of Japan’s famous samurai class, which ruled the country from 1192 to 1868, eventually came to encompass all aspects of people’s lives: their philosophical and spiritual beliefs, their etiquette, their family life, their dress, their work, their aesthetic sense, even their recreation”.
In this book, De Mente attempts to identify the positive factors of Bushido that were primarily responsible for the amazing economic success of the Japanese, and that still play a vital role in their economic prowess today.
For anyone who wants to be successful in their dealings with Japanese companies, or who has an interest in applying the character traits of the samurai code of ethics to improve their own skills and personal performance, this book will be an enjoyable read and an engaging success manual.
The book has 59 short chapters, making it very easy to read and digest. Each lesson could be pondered over a much longer period of time than it takes to read the short chapter. For those interested in the Japanese language as well as cultural and historical references, you will also love to see the Japanese for each of the titles and concepts presented in these chapters.
Some of the topics covered:
The spirit that motivates the Japanese: Nihonjin no Seishin
The Power of the Right Mental Attitude: Tadashii Kangaekata no Pawaa
Taking the best and leaving the rest: Shusha Sentaku no “Myou”
Failure is not an option: Shippai wa Yurusarenai
The Power of Extreme Diligence: Osokubeki Nihonjin no Kinben
The Samurai Work Ethic: Bushi no Roudoh Rinri
The word of a samurai: Bushi no Ichi-gon
The Life and Death Factor: Inochigake no Seichin
Adapt to change: Henka ni Taiou
The right thing in the right way!: Subete ni Jouseki ari
Boye Lafayette De Mente has been involved with Japan, Korea, and China since the late 1940s and is the author of more than 30 books on these three countries. I have enjoyed several of his books, and this one especially.
I also study the ancient warriors of Korea, Japan and China and I am grateful to people like De Mente who have allowed me to learn about these countries in English. As a martial artist, former US Army soldier, and someone who follows and teaches not only the physical skills of self-defense, but also warrior traditions and philosophies, I found this book extremely valuable in not only helping to improve my own skills. to be successful in personal and business endeavors, but also to study, apply and assist with my own personal warrior philosophy and teachings.
When the samurai went into battle, their goal was to win. Bushido skills will contribute to your success and help you succeed in life. Study and apply the lessons of the Japanese Samurai Code and you will see how far the classic strategies for success will take you.