These principles, which are also called the seven objectives, comprise the foundation of Panasonic’s management philosophy. Matsushita’s powerful ideas are about the roots of life-long learning. One can, he often told people, learn from any experience, and at any age. With ideals that are big and humanistic, Matsushita emphasized, one could conquer success and failure, learn from both, and continue to grow. “In changing environment, life-long learning maybe more related to great success or unusual achievements than IQ, parental socio-economic status, charisma, and formal education… Life-long learning is closely associated with humility, an open mind, a willingness to take risks, a capacity to listen, and honest self-reflection,” Matsushita said.

One piece of advice Konosuke Matsushita gave to his employees in the early days of the company was: You may be a well-educated, clever and virtuous person, but those qualities will not necessarily make you a successful businessman. In addition, you must acquire the knack for business. This is to be done “by giving your best to each and every task you take on, and by reflecting on your performance with an honest and unprejudiced eye. If you do this constantly, day after day, eventually you will be able to do your job unerringly."