Walking Alone
Leadership Lessons from Musashi’s Solitude
People tend to think of me as an extrovert, always comfortable in front of a crowd, leading discussions, and making connections. But the truth is, I’m more of an introvert at heart. I’ve always loved my solitude and have cultivated a very small group of the same handful of friends since childhood. I enjoy being around people, but I’ve learned that my best thinking, my clearest decisions, come when I’m alone.
Miyamoto Musashi, one of Japan’s most famous swordsmen and philosophers, understood the power of solitude better than most. His treatise, Dokkodo (The Way of Walking Alone), written near the end of his life, lays out 21 precepts for living with a clear mind and steady heart. Musashi’s life was spent in battle, both external and internal, and by the time he wrote Dokkodo, he had mastered the art of embracing solitude—not just as a personal choice, but as a way of life.
In a world that glorifies constant interaction, social media, and endless meetings, Musashi’s idea of “walking alone” may seem antiquated or even counterproductive. But for modern leaders, solitude is not just a refuge; it’s a tool. Let’s explore how embracing this principle can help leaders develop independence, clarity, and strong decision-making skills.
The Power of Solitude in Leadership
Leadership often comes with the perception that you need to be constantly engaged with others—making decisions in real-time, collaborating with teams, or networking with peers. But Musashi’s life teaches us that true leadership, the kind that is both sustainable and impactful, often grows in the moments of quiet, far away from the noise of daily business.
Solitude, when embraced, allows leaders to build independence. This independence doesn’t mean isolation from others, but rather a self-reliance that comes from knowing who you are and what you value. Musashi walked his path alone not because he didn’t need others, but because he knew the importance of not depending on anyone else for his sense of direction.
For modern leaders, this means finding time to step away from the noise and reconnect with the core of who you are. We live in a world that prizes collaboration, and while that’s important, the ability to make decisions independently, based on your principles and judgment, is crucial. Musashi’s solitude gave him the strength to stand alone, and leaders today can harness that same strength by carving out time for reflection and decision-making on their own terms.
Clarity Through Solitude
One of the greatest gifts of solitude is clarity. Musashi understood this, which is why he spent his final years in a cave, distilling his philosophy into Dokkodo. Away from distractions, Musashi was able to focus his mind on what truly mattered.
For leaders, clarity is essential. It’s easy to get caught up in the rapid pace of business—emails, phone calls, meetings that stretch late into the night. Without time to reflect, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. Solitude offers a chance to reset and refocus, to step back and ask the tough questions: What’s really important here? What am I missing?
I’ve found that my best ideas come when I step away from the noise. Whether it’s during an early morning walk or a few hours with a good book, these moments of quiet allow me to sift through the clutter and get to the heart of what’s really going on. It’s not always easy to find the time, but Musashi’s example reminds us that solitude is a discipline, one that pays off in clarity of mind and purpose.
Decision-Making in Isolation
In leadership, decision-making can feel like an endless, collaborative process. We gather input from teams, consult with experts, and work through potential outcomes in real-time. But Musashi’s principle of walking alone reminds us that, at the end of the day, leadership often means making decisions on your own.
Musashi’s life was marked by decisive actions. He fought over 60 duels to the death and never lost. His victories weren’t a result of rash decisions, but calculated moves made in isolation. In the heat of battle, there was no time to consult others. He had to rely on his instincts, honed in the quiet moments he spent alone, reflecting on strategy and refining his skills.
For leaders today, decision-making often requires a similar kind of solitude. Yes, we need input from others, but when the time comes to make the tough calls, the responsibility rests on our shoulders. It’s in those moments of isolation that we find the strength to act decisively, trusting our instincts and judgment.
Applying Musashi’s Solitude to Modern Leadership
So how can modern leaders apply Musashi’s principle of solitude to their busy lives? Here are a few practical ways:
1. Schedule Time Alone
Block off time in your calendar for solitude. Whether it’s a daily walk, an hour of reading, or simply sitting in silence, make solitude a priority. Treat it as essential as any other meeting.
2. Disconnect to Reconnect
Turn off the phone, close the laptop, and disconnect from social media. Solitude requires a space free from distractions. By disconnecting, you can reconnect with your thoughts and gain the clarity you need to lead effectively.
3. Reflect Before Reacting
Before making a major decision, take time to reflect. Don’t rush into action without first considering all angles. Musashi’s solitude wasn’t just about being alone; it was about using that time to think deeply and act with precision.
4. Cultivate Independence
Use solitude to build independence. Rely on your own judgment and principles when making decisions. While collaboration is important, solitude ensures that your actions are aligned with your values.
Conclusion: The Strength of Walking Alone
Musashi’s principle of walking alone may seem out of step with today’s hyperconnected world, but it holds timeless wisdom for leaders. Solitude isn’t about shutting others out—it’s about creating space for clarity, independence, and thoughtful decision-making. In a world that prizes constant interaction, the ability to step back, reflect, and walk your path with confidence is more important than ever.
As leaders, we need both community and solitude. But it’s in those quiet, solitary moments, when we’re left alone with our thoughts, that we gain the clarity and strength needed to lead with conviction and purpose. Walking alone isn’t a retreat; it’s the foundation for building something stronger and more resilient.