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What is "zanshin"?
"Zanshin" is a Japanese word that is particularly meaningful to our
founders. Literally translated, it is composed of two parts:
zan (remains), and shin (heart or
spirit). The common interpretation of this meaning, "remaining
spirit,"
is the state of maintaining readiness for action, or keeping
focus after an action.
The idea of zanshin is a cornerstone of our approach to work and
life. Information security is a field which requires this state of mind
in order to achieve success. One must constantly be aware of the current
state of the network and surrounding environment, as well as developments
in the global Internet and related technologies. It is a very fluid and
dynamic battleground. In order to do well, one must maintain "a
mind of continual readiness, like a mirror ready to reflect whatever
is shown to it." (Anzan Hoshin, Without Hesitation).
On a more personal level, zanshin reminds us to remain aware of the
moment. Life is full of distractions, and while we constantly plan for
tomorrow, we must remember to pay attention to the
present. When we remain mindful of our current surroundings and our
place in them, we can take action as it is needed, and savor our time
as it goes by.
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