Modern Shu-Ha-Ri

Shu-Ha-Ri. 

1. Shu – Follow / Preserve

 “to preserve” or “to follow.”The student strictly follows the rules and techniques of the master or system.Focus: learning the fundamentals without modifications.Analogy: a child learns the alphabet and basic shapes before improvising.

2. Ha – Detach / BreakLiterally

“to break” or “to detach.”After fully understanding the basics, the student starts experimenting and adapting the rules.Focus: refining techniques and discovering what works in different situations.Analogy: a musician improvises after years of practicing classical pieces.

3. Ri – Transcend / LeaveLiterally

 “to leave” or “to separate.”The student transcends the rules and develops a personal style.Focus: intuitive application, mastery without reliance on rigid forms.Analogy: a great artist paints freely while still understanding the fundamentals of technique.

ApplicationsMartial arts 

From strictly following kata to improvising in combat. Software / Agile: from following best practices to creating innovative solutions. Music and art: from studying masterpieces to developing a unique voice or style.

Personal development: from learning through rules and instruction to gaining insight and creativity.


"Learn more about the timeless principles of Shu-Ha-Ri and how disciplined practice forms the foundation for mastery."

“Shu-Ha-Ri in the Now” – A framework for learning, adapting, and mastering any modern skill.

Modern Examples of Shu-Ha-Ri

1. Coding / Software Development

  • Shu: You start by carefully following coding standards, tutorials, and best practices. You stick to the rules, learning the foundation of your craft.
  • Ha: Once confident, you begin experimenting—adapting frameworks, exploring new tools, and applying your knowledge in creative ways.
  • Ri: Eventually, you create your own intuitive coding patterns and solutions, flowing naturally without needing to follow instructions step by step.
    Whether you’re building apps, websites, or solving complex problems, this is how mastery grows.

2. Education / Teaching

  • Shu: As a student, you focus on understanding the basics, following lesson plans and instructions closely.
  • Ha: As you gain experience, you start applying knowledge in projects, developing your own perspectives, and exploring new ways to learn.
  • Ri: Eventually, you may teach or design your own courses, creating innovative methods tailored to your students’ needs, guided by your own insight.
    This path turns learning into true understanding and personal empowerment.

3. Music / Art

  • Shu: You practice foundational techniques, classical pieces, or established exercises, absorbing the craft of your mentor.
  • Ha: You begin to experiment, improvise, and develop a personal style that reflects your personality.
  • Ri: Finally, you create original, intuitive works that transcend rules, expressing your unique voice in music or art.
    It’s a journey from discipline to creativity, and from imitation to originality.

"Learn more about the timeless principles of Shu-Ha-Ri and how disciplined practice forms the foundation for mastery."