Zanshin is a profound Japanese concept that literally translates to "remaining mind." It means a state of relaxed alertness and heightened awareness. Closely related to the Buddhist concept of mindfulness, Zanshin has its roots in Japanese martial arts. It refers to maintaining alertness and vigilance both after executing an action and in anticipating an opponent's next move.
In martial arts, Zanshin emphasizes that even after a move is executed, one must remain fully aware and prepared for any counteraction. This principle extends seamlessly to everyday life. Consider this: after applying for a competitive examination or job, a candidate cannot afford to forget about it until the exam date or interview call. Continuous preparation and focus are essential to excel when the moment arrives.
The importance of Zanshin is vividly illustrated in the 2004 critically acclaimed movie Million Dollar Baby. In the climactic boxing match, Maggie wins but is injured by an illegal sucker punch from her opponent, Billie "The Blue Bear" Osterman, after the bell rings. Maggie’s guard was down as the bell had rung. But the tragic consequences remind us of the cost of losing vigilance after an action is taken. While her situation was unfair, and the punch was illegal, Zanshin—remaining alert even in moments of perceived resolution—might have saved her from the punch that broke her neck landing her on a hospital bed in a state of paralysis.
In our daily lives, we often experience lapses in Zanshin. Imagine instructing a subordinate to complete a task and assuming it’s done without follow-up. Later, we discover the task was never completed. This failure stems from inaction after action. A simple follow-up or reminder could ensure the task's completion and reinforce accountability. Similarly, sending a birthday gift and following it up with a call conveys thoughtfulness and deepens emotional connections. Such follow-up actions amplify the impact of our gestures, demonstrating love and care.
While mindfulness encourages focus during an action, Zanshin expands this awareness to encompass the aftermath. It advocates for an additional step of vigilance—one that enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of our efforts.
A "reminding mind," as Zanshin suggests, is the bridge between effort and impactful results. By staying alert and mindful even after an action is taken, we maximize the value of our endeavours and ensure they leave a lasting impact.
