The Bashful Monkey's Body
A concept describing a hesitant, timid approach in combat or attack, characterized by keeping distance and lacking spirit, contrasted with the necessity of closing in decisively with full resolve.
THE IDEA
The Bashful Monkey's Body
The Bashful Monkey does not reach out with his arms. There is no spirit in the intention of the attack and it is usually used by those who do not understand the strategy of an attack. The Bashful Monkey is unsure of himself and is probably thinking of the possibility of being hurt. By keeping yourself at more than arm’s distance from the enemy, you are essentially not being sure of your own abilities.
The attitude of destroying the enemy with one cut is based on the attitude of “going in” to the attack. If not, your spirit is lacking and your resolve is less than complete. You must always close in on the enemy regardless of the indications of the enemy’s strength.
When to use it
A martial artist learning to commit fully to a technique despite fear of counterattack.
An athlete in a high-stakes competition who must overcome self-doubt to seize a decisive moment.
A business leader deciding whether to aggressively pursue a market opportunity or wait for more information.
A negotiator who needs to close a deal with conviction rather than hedging due to uncertainty.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Hesitant Fencer
A fencer who is afraid of being hit holds back their lunge, keeping distance from the opponent. This hesitation allows the opponent to take the initiative and score points, confirming the Bashful Monkey's mindset.
Timid Salesperson
A salesperson who fails to ask for the close due to fear of rejection keeps a 'safe distance' from the customer, leading to missed opportunities and a lack of conviction that undermines trust.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
When have you hesitated in a crucial moment? What was the outcome?
How can you cultivate a spirit of commitment in your actions, even when facing perceived strength?
In what situations is it wise to hold back versus go all in? How does the Bashful Monkey's Body inform this decision?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Musashis book of five rings the definitive interpretation of Miyamoto Musashis classic book of strategy (Kaufman, SteveMiyamoto, Musashi)