In the traditional sense of the word, Ninjas were considered as the mercenaries of Japan who were engaged in espionage, sabotage, infiltration and assassination. Even though many of these dark forces may be highly sought after by a few in today's global business environment, (where greed and corruption runs rampant), for the purpose of this article we'll focus on the modern definition of Ninja ... meaning a person who excels in a particular skill or activity.
In addition to their intense focus, training and commitment towards skill development, Ninjas share a unique set of characteristics that, if embraced, can make your career equally as legendary. Become a NIT by putting yourself to the test with a benchmark against the following Top 10 attributes of a Ninja.
“A master can teach many things. But the most important lesson for a ninja is to learn oneself.”
Loyalty: Ninjas have fierce loyalties and so should you. Don't worry, I'm not going to state how you must be the most devoted employee to your employer. That pendulum swings both ways. In the business world, your faithfulness must be around your word, your values, your commitments and your obligations. Only then will it be possible to preserve the integrity of your character.
Bravery: At the heart of every ninja lies a warrior with courageous endurance. Your work should also be admired, tested and not limited to a comfort zone. Challenge your abilities, push your skills and face your fears whenever possible. After each battle, you will see a more confident and valiant leader begin to emerge. Never doubt your ability to be heroic.
Optimism: Ninjas live with great spirit, and share the mindset that the world is much bigger than me. In your career and life, you will face intense pressures. There will never be a shortfall of items to be pessimistic about. However, when you put the needs of the team or your family ahead of your own, you will see how your optimism inspires others and gives hope. Always keep a positive attitude, those who surround you depend on it whether they admit it or not.
Knowledge: It takes many years of disciplined martial arts training and spiritual studying to become a ninja, as it takes many years to develop the skills necessary to thrive in the business world. Just realize that knowledge is best when applied. If you are not using what you learn or sharing it your profound wisdom is moot.
Patience: Ninjas believe that we must walk slow throw life like a turtle (Ninja Turtle pun) and the more patient we are the more wise and fulfilled we become. Rushing through life leads to going nowhere fast ... You will make mistakes, poor decisions, be unprepared, and potentially hurt yourself or others. Careers in the corporate world can span throughout 40 years, therefore, patience must truly be a virtue.
Diligence: To accomplish any task, ninjas deliver a persistent exertion of the body and mind. A similar, constant and earnest effort should be placed into your daily tasks at hand. Ninjas never simply just go through the motions. They realize the importance of practice and how only perfect practice makes perfect. Do things right and put the proper time, concentration and care into succeeding each day.
Responsibility: You shouldn't have to be a ninja to know that the buck stops with you. Meaning that you are the only one answerable and accountable for something within your power, control or management. A ninja would first chop off his finger before ever pointing it at someone else.
Honor: Ninjas were either born into the profession, where family traditions were passed down, or trained since childhood. Like the samurai and many other martial art disciplines that demand extreme schooling, earning a title or level of distinction is a great honor that all in the field admire. When you arrive to the party in corporate America, be one who always appreciates the privilege and treat all colleagues with fairness and respect.
Respect: Ninjas identify with the sense of worth and excellence of a teacher, fellow ninja or opponent with a bow or other form of salute. Respect is inherent to the core of a ninja's being. Bowing and other gestures of admiration may not be asked of you at the office, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't hold the highest regard and consideration for colleagues. Remember that respect is earned, so work hard to see that your behavior and actions are building yours.
Ingenuity: Ninjas are cleverly inventive and resourceful. Whether scaling a wall or walking on water, ninjas have designed many clever tools, devices and weapons to get the job done. In the business world, where change is the only constant, it is your ingenuity that may escalate the company from surviving to thriving. Take advantage of the intelligence that surrounds you by bring together peers to collectively troubleshoot problems and discover new opportunities.
“Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens.”
You already spent more than $100k on your education, what's another $20? http://t.co/botwnSZix6 via @amazon
— Carmine Del Sordi (@BigLeaguesBook) July 20, 2014
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