December 2025 Part 2: Entrepreneurs should study the "Oath in Five Articles"
Now, let's take a look at the Oath in Five Articles one by one.
1. Hold meetings widely and decide all matters through public discussion.
The first is to gather a wide range of people together in meetings and make all decisions through public opinion. Entrepreneurs often make decisions dictatorially or through secret meetings. However, making decisions dictatorially or through secret meetings can easily lead to major problems later on. When making important decisions, it is important above all to listen to a wide range of opinions and hold open discussions.
2. All superiors and subordinates must be of one mind and united in actively carrying out the affairs of the state.
The second is that regardless of rank, everyone should come together in one spirit and actively govern and improve the country. If the spirits of superiors and subordinates are not aligned, the organization will not function well. Managers and entrepreneurs must always strive to unite the spirits of those above and below. In order for superiors and subordinates to be united in spirit, good communication within the organization is essential.
3. It is necessary to avoid creating dissatisfaction so that everyone in the organization can pursue their own mission.
The third point is that it is necessary to ensure that people, not only civil and military officials but also ordinary citizens, do not lose hope so that they can fulfill their duties and achieve their aspirations. Leaders must always be on the lookout for people who are dissatisfied or losing hope. It is also important to keep people motivated and motivate them.
4. Throw away bad habits and do everything based on universal principles.
The fourth is to abolish bad practices from the past and base everything on natural and correct laws. Let's take a look at our past practices. Are we still carrying on with bad habits? Let's gradually stop bad practices and improve to better ways of doing things.
5. Seek knowledge from around the world to strengthen the foundation of your organization
The fifth is to seek knowledge from around the world, cherish the national character and traditions centered around the Emperor, and greatly develop the country. It is important to seek knowledge from around the world not only for the development of the nation, but also for the development of a company. Gaining knowledge is important, but it is meaningless if it does not contribute to the development of one's own company. The reason for acquiring knowledge is to develop one's company, so it is important not to lose sight of that purpose.
Emperor Meiji issued the "Oath in Five Articles" in 1868. Since then, Japan has developed rapidly and established itself as a modern nation. As an entrepreneur or businessman, we recommend using the "Oath in Five Articles" as a reference for developing your own business and strengthening its foundation.
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