Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957), the father of modern Karate, was born in Okinawa. He was one of the first Okinawan masters to teach Karate on the Japanese mainland, where he established the Shotokan School in Tokyo. Funakoshi summed up his views on the Way of Karate in twenty principles.

1. Never forget that Karate begins and ends with respect.
2. There is no first attack in Karate.
3. Karate fosters righteousness.
4. First know yourself, and then know others.
5. Rather than physical technique, mental technique.
6. Let your mind roam freely.
7. Inattention and neglect cause misfortune.
8. Never think that Karate is practiced only in the training hall.
9. Karate is a lifelong pursuit.
10. Everything you encouter is an aspect of Karate; find the marvelous truth there.
11. Karate is like boiling water; if you do not keep the flame high (with continual training), it turns tepid.
12. Do not think about winning; think about not losing.
13. Respond in accordance to your opponent.
14. Wage the battle with natural strategy.
15. Regard your hands and feet as weapons.
16. Step out the door and you face 10,000 foes.
17. Learn various stances as a beginner, but then rely on a natural posture.
18. The traditional forms must be practiced correctly; real combat is another matter.
19. Never forget your own strengths and weaknesses, the limitations of your body, and the relative quality of your techniques.
20. Continually polish your mind.

From Budo Secrets: Teachings of the Martial Arts Masters by John Stevens


While Funakoshi was talking about Karate, his list is relavent to all martial arts and everyone, regardless of style, can find wisdom in these words applicable to their own training.