The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate

The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate

1. Do not forget that karate-do begins and ends with rei (respect & etiquette). 
2. There is no first strike in karate.
3. Karate stands on the side of justice.
4. First know yourself,then know others.
5. Mentality over technique.
6. The mind must be set free.
7. Calamity springs from carelessness.
8. Karate goes beyond the dojo.
9. Karate is a life long pursuit.
10. Apply the way of karate to all things. Therein lies its beauty.
11. Karate is like boiling water: without heat, it returns to its tepid state.
12. Do not think of winning. Think, rather, of not losing.
13. Make adjustments according to your opponent.
14. The outcome of a battle depends on how one handles emptiness and fullness (weakness and strength).
15. Think of the opponent’s hands and feet as swords.
16. When you step beyond your own gate, you face million enemies.
17. Kamae (formal posture) is for beginners; later, use shizentai (natural form).
18. Perform kata exactly; actual combat is another matter (free form).
19. Do not forget the employment or withdrawal of power, the extension or contraction of the body, the swift or leisurely application of technique (proper rhythm and focus).
20. Be constantly mindful, diligent, and resourceful in your pursuit of the Way.

--- Gichin Funakoshi