In Zanshin Leadership’s martial-arts–inspired workshops, Ukeireru is a core skill. Participants practice exercises that require full presence (e.g. mindful listening drills or partner feedback sessions like the one pictured). Trainers define Ukeireru as the attitude that builds “emotional maturity” and “psychological safety” on teams.

In practical terms, this means leaders are coached to stay open-minded when under pressure, not to jump to blame, and to acknowledge reality even when it’s hard. When a team faces conflict, a manager using Ukeireru will first “accept” (listen and empathize) before reacting, creating a space where people feel heard.

This approach yields immediate payoffs: Zanshin notes that acceptance “enhances decision-making, team dynamics, and the ability to hold space for complexity and change.” That translates to clearer priorities during a crisis, smoother collaboration across departments, and a culture where new ideas are welcomed rather than shot down.

In one workshop, for example, mid-level managers role-played a tense negotiation. Those who stayed grounded in acceptance were better at defusing anger and finding creative solutions; others fell into blame.

Over time, embracing ukeireru within Zanshin leadership training cultivates trust and cohesion. Teams learn that mistakes or bad news won’t be punished but will be handled with candor and care. In short, Ukeireru teaches leaders to hold the space – to remain attentive and composed even when their project or team is off course.