The "Jissen" Mindset
Posted on November 03, 2020 by Alexander-James Guillermo, One of Thousands of Life Coaches on Noomii.
"Jissen" means "real combat". Learn to reap the benefits of having a "jissen" mindset and flourish in stressful environments.
What is the defining physiological difference between a warrior and a non-combatant? Vulgarly put, it’s their “oh shit” reaction. Try this (when appropriate): out of nowhere, unannounced, throw a punch or kick at someone. If that’s not possible, observe someone suddenly put in a stressful situation. Chances are they will sharply breathe in, raise their shoulders, retract, and/or tense up. A warrior, someone who flourishes under stress, will react in the exact opposite way: they’ll relax, breathe out, move forward rather than retreat, and ever so slightly lower their center of gravity. The latter snaps into readiness; the former freaks out and freezes.
How do warriors change and transform such an ingrained mental and physical response? Simply put, practice. However, it’s not just any kind of practice. Warriors practice keeping “jissen”, or real life-and-death combat, in mind. When drilling their movements, they wait until they can feel the wind from a punch, kick, cut, or stike on the very hairs of their face before moving. Yes, many would choose the easy way, which is to move early because they know what’s coming. However, one who challenges themselves to stretch the moment to its limits will reap greater benefit. In business, this means a greater ROI, the investment being time and effort.
In many situations there is always an easy way. However, there are times when there are none. One who has taken every opportunity to walk the line between life and death will flourish when crossing the tightrope.
Perfection is impossible, but there is great value in seeking it. In every meeting, give your report as if your job depends on it. In every interaction, communicate as if it will be the last time. When creating anything, think of it as the very last thing you leave on this earth. Leave no regret, no thoughts of “if only I had…”.
Opportunities to practice “jissen” are a luxury and blessing to be taken advantage of whenever possible. Practice with gratitude and earnestness, and you will learn how to transform your “oh shit” reaction when the time for practice is over. You’ll start to relax under stress, and eventually find peace and balance in conflict.
