The founder of the martial art of Aikido was fond of using the term Agatsu, “self victory”. According to the founder, true victory (MASAKATSU) is the victory ne achieves over oneself (AGATSU). Thus one of the founder’s slogans was:

MASAKATSU AGATSU “The true victory of self mastery”

When the founder spoke of Masakatsu Agatsu he was speaking about more than just victory in combat. This concept is far reaching and is less about controlling the opponent and more about personal development and skill. Victory is not the conquering of an opponent but the mastery of self.