“If by setting one’s heart right every morning and evening, one is able to live as though his body were already dead, he gains freedom in the Way. His whole life will be without blame, and he will succeed in his calling… For existence is impermanent as the dew of evening, and the hoarfrost of morning, and particularly uncertain is the life of the warrior” – Hagakure
The point is simple. Those who have their backs against the wall, those who have nothing to lose, will for whatever it’s worth, give everything and their souls to achieve, win and conquer. For this motivation to be a driving force in any task undertaken, or to be a factor to any outlined goal, one must deal with the situation as if it were all or nothing, a state of mind where failure would literally mean the end.
This could mean cutting ties with people who would support you financially in spite of a failure. It could mean removing yourself from a drawn out relationship that hinders you from meeting new people. Whatever the situation is, take responsibility entirely on yourself. Let no one be there for you should you faulter. You have your back to the wall, you can feel death tapping on your shoulder. You cannot fail. Success becomes your ONLY option.
Sun-Tzu called this Death Ground, a state of mind where your alternatives are removed, only your goal remains and nothing else can distract you. All of your effort, focus and discipline is used to achieve your goal. The process becomes cleansing. Once your goal has been achieved, you are stronger, more determined and become far more appreciative of the things you have.
About the Author
Harmesh Phul is a student of Chinese Boxing. His passion remains exploring the physical and psychological limits of combat. He trains in London, England, is a regular writer for http://darkwingchun.wordpress.com and can be contacted on harmesh.phul@gmail.com.
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