The Gazing Principle – zoom out and zoom in

Take a step backward to gain clarity in critical moments without losing sight of the immediate situation.

Our name derives from the Gazing Principle®, practised and developed by the Japanese swordsman and philosopher Musashi. His legendary prowess, which enabled him to come unscathed through countless duels with other Samurai, was based on a “double gaze”; one eye on the immediate situation (the opponent) and the other on the bigger picture (the state of play on the wider battlefield).

The key to success, as Musashi demonstrated, is the ability to switch constantly between the two – to zoom out and zoom in. There’s no point in focusing on details of execution if you haven’t got a clear sense of overall strategy – and vice versa.

Adapting mindset is a skill that anyone can learn to allow them to perform at their highest level, even under pressure. Here’s why:

  1. Taking a deliberate step backwards, mentally, will increase the likelihood of being able to think clearly in high pressure situations 
  2. Thinking clearly will help a person take in all the necessary information and gain a better understanding of the situation, allowing them to make better, more strategic, decisions  
  3. High achievers and performers have a critical ability to clearly assess the consequences and potential risks of their actions whilst under pressure; this ability helps them to make more considered decisions and then act with focus on the specific task, whilst keeping the bigger picture in mind.

Whether you’re looking to improve your performance under pressure or simply want to make better choices in your day-to-day life, the Gazing Principle provides a wider frame of reference to help you way up. the options and make the best decision in your particular circumstances.

Other Recent Posts

Louis completes the fifth marathon in his Seven Continents challenge
Louis Alexander completes the fifth marathon in his Seven Continents challenge for Alzheimer’s research….
How the All Blacks Harness Mindset in the Moments that Matter
The All Blacks are particularly vocal about mindset and how it helps them to keep…
Coach’s Corner: Jo Mountford
Red2Blue coach Jo Mountford, the founder and director of ‘Beet it with Jo’, tells us…
Emma Wells: A strong mindset is essential to success
Emma Wells talks to us about her career and how she incorporates Red2Blue into her…
Red2Blue serves Tommy well on the court
14 year old Tommy Herbert explains how Red2Blue keeps him calm on the tennis court….
Coach’s Corner: Gustavo Granitto
Gus Granitto, a Red2Blue Certified Advanced Coach, talks to us about how he integrates Red2Blue…