Embracing the Ninja and Samurai Ethos: A New Paradigm for Workplace Excellence
Introduction:
Last weekend, I took my son to a unique exhibition at the Japanese Pavilion in partnership with the Prefecture of Mie, the Mie Kenji Cultural Association of Brazil, and the IGA-RYU Ninja Museum. For the first time in Brazil, the exhibition showcased ninjas’ traditions, history, and customs, captivating its visitors. The province of Mie, located in the Kansai region of Japan and known as the birthplace of ninjas, celebrated its 50th anniversary of the sister state agreement with the State of São Paulo in 2023. The NINJA PAVILION exhibition featured exclusive content from the Iga Ryu Museum, including panels, videos, original clothing, weapons, and ninja equipment.
Now, let’s dive into the world of ninjas and samurai and see how their distinct styles can be applied to the modern workplace.
Ninja Style: Adaptability and Stealth
In the workplace, the ninja style can be likened to the ability to adapt to various situations and work stealthily toward goals. Ninjas are known for their resourcefulness, flexibility, and ability to blend into their surroundings. In a business context, this translates to quickly adapting to changes, thinking on your feet, and working independently or in small teams to achieve objectives. It’s about being innovative and creative and not being afraid to take unconventional approaches to solve problems.
Samurai Style: Discipline and Honor
On the other hand, the samurai style in the workplace can be associated with discipline, honor, and a powerful sense of duty. Samurai is known for their strict adherence to the Bushido code, which emphasizes loyalty, courage, and honor primarily. In a professional setting, this can be seen in dedicated, reliable employees who uphold the highest ethical standards. They are the ones who stick to their commitments, respect their colleagues, and always maintain a prominent level of professionalism.
Balancing the Two Styles
While the ninja and samurai styles may seem at odds, they can complement each other in the workplace. The adaptability and innovation of the ninja style can be balanced with the discipline and honor of the samurai style to create a well-rounded professional. By embracing the best of both worlds, employees can navigate the complexities of the modern workplace quickly and efficiently.
In conclusion, just as I learned from the ninja exhibition with my son, we can all learn something from the ancient traditions of ninjas and samurai. By applying these lessons to our professional lives, we can become more adaptable, disciplined, and more successful in our careers.
