This note explores the concept of ki, or energy. It concentrates on aikido, a Japanese martial art that channels the human body’s natural energy toward balance, health, grounding, and the mental clarity required to overcome obstacles and discover new insights. Aikido is a defensively oriented martial art, designed to utilize the ki of the attack in a manner that turns that energy to the detriment of the attacker. The note discusses the six principles of aikido and applies them to business situations. It brings new perspectives on challenges and opportunities faced by businesses ranging from Dollar General to Standard and Poor’s to Rodale Press, and generates insights about strategy, including purpose, mission, culture, mergers, and competition.