In the final days of his life, the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi wrote down a short but powerful list of life lessons called Dokkōdō, or “The Way of Walking Alone.” These 21 principles reflect a life shaped by discipline, self-awareness, and a deep sense of inner peace. They weren’t meant just for warriors, they’re for anyone looking for clarity and strength in everyday life.
I first came across Musashi while reading the manga Vagabond by Takehiko Inoue, and I was immediately drawn to his character. Watching his transformation, from a wild, almost beast-like swordsman into a calm and thoughtful farmer, left a huge impression on me. That shift felt meaningful, and it made me curious about the real Musashi behind the story.
As I started digging deeper, I came across Dokkōdō. Written just a week before his death, these 21 simple principles capture the core of Musashi’s personal philosophy. They’re honest, straightforward, and surprisingly relevant even today. Reading them, I felt like I was getting a glimpse into the mind of someone who had truly figured out what matters.
The 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 long.
- 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 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.
- You may abandon your own body but you must preserve your honor.
- Never stray from the Way.
These principles aren’t about cutting yourself off from the world, they’re about living with intention. In a world that’s constantly loud and distracting, Musashi’s words are a reminder to move through life with calm, focus, and a clear sense of purpose.
Follow your own path. Stay true to what matters.