Bruce Lee's youth experiences significantly influenced his martial arts philosophy. Growing up in Hong Kong, Lee faced the challenges of being a mixed-race child in a Chinese community. His early training in various martial arts, combined with his interest in philosophy and theatrical arts, shaped his approach. Lee emphasized the importance of personal expression and adaptation, famously stating, "Absorb what is useful, discard what is not." His philosophy promotes the idea of martial arts as a holistic journey towards self-discovery, reflecting his life's struggles and teachings, which remain influential in martial arts and popular culture.