How a Martial Arts Champion Is Redefining Leadership for CEOs
Aslak de Silva, a world-champion martial artist and multinational CEO, has blended his expertise in both fields to transform leadership thinking. His new book, The Black Belt in Leadership, connects the principles of martial arts with modern business management. With over 15 years of experience leading teams in technology and business, he now advises top executives on sustainable performance.
De Silva’s approach centres on balance and recovery, much like the discipline required in art. He argues that great leadership isn’t about short bursts of intensity but consistent, long-term performance. His concept of the Do-Life Path emphasises intentional rest to avoid burnout and maintain clarity under pressure.
De Silva’s methods challenge the idea that constant intensity leads to success. Instead, his book and teachings promote a structured approach—balancing effort with recovery. Leaders who adopt this mindset, he believes, will achieve stronger, more sustainable results in the long run.
