What is the secret by which many people, in a few parts of the world, live more than a hundred years in very good health? Actually, it’s not just one. but seven combined Japanese principles that help you stay active.
As a whole they focus on self-leadership and motivation, two fundamental aspects in the search for success and personal fulfillment.
Eastern culture is a great way to practice the steps and habits necessary to reach a positive next level in life, no matter where you are currently.
In fact, these places with very long-lived people are called blue zones or “longevity paradises”. They are generally very small populations where people live much longer than the rest of the people due to a combination of factors, which, of course, include diet, regulating stress, daily exercise by walking or cycling, and maintaining a social and social life. active community. For example, don’t isolate yourself and be kind to others.
7 Japanese principles to apply every day
There are seven Japanese principles that can help us improve and maintain an excellent outlook on life.
These principles guide us toward a deeper understanding of ourselves and others, allowing us to develop more meaningful relationships and achieve a greater sense of purpose in our existence.
1. Oubaitori: Don’t compare yourself, bloom at your own pace
This method starts from the idea of the flowering of trees, and applies it to people. It focuses on the importance of self-development and on a premise “don’t compare yourself to others.”
Modern society constantly pushes us to compare ourselves to others, which can lead to insecurity and feelings of inadequacy.
Oubaitori, a Japanese principle, reminds us that each individual is unique and flourishes at their own pace. Stopping comparing ourselves to others frees us from anxiety and allows us to focus on our own growth and development.
At work, as well as with family and friends, or as leaders and motivators, it is crucial to understand that each member of our team has their strengths and weaknesses. The mission is to encourage each individual to shine in their own way and celebrate their achievements, without comparing them to others. Fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and appreciation of diversity in the team will generate an environment of collaboration and mutual motivation.
2. kaizen: Continuous improvement for personal growth
kaizen is a concept that promotes continuous improvement in all aspects of life.
Used by the world’s largest automakers, and embraced by industries of all kinds, it’s about focusing on constantly making small changes, recognizing that these changes add up and have significant long-term impact.
At work it is possible to foster a mentality of kaizen in our team, encouraging everyone to always look for ways to improve and grow.
Rather than expect sweeping changes or instant perfection, we should recognize and celebrate small advances and improvements. This approach nurtures a culture of constant learning and development, where failure is seen as an opportunity to learn and grow.
3. wabi sabi: Find beauty in imperfection
We already know: we live in a world obsessed with perfection. This Japanese principle called wabi sabi invites us to embrace the beauty of the imperfect and ephemeral. We accept that nothing is eternal, that we all have flaws and mistakes, both ourselves and others.
By embracing imperfection, we create a more understanding and tolerant environment, where everyone feels safe to be their true self. This encourages creativity and innovation, as people feel free to express their ideas without fear of judgment or excessive criticism.
4. Gaman: Emotional maturity in difficult times
Gaman it is a principle that promotes dignity and emotional strength in difficult and extreme moments. Practicing Gaman implies facing these moments with three pillars: patience, perseverance and tolerance.
When we face difficulties, it is important to remain calm and manage our emotions maturely. By doing so, we inspire our environment to do the same and create a space of trust and stability. Recognizing the value of standing strong in the face of adversity allows us to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term success.
5. ikigai: Find your reason for being
ikigai It is a very popular concept in the West, which comes from the East, and especially from the regions called blue zones or “longevity paradises”. They are generally very small populations where people live much longer than the rest of the people.
Precisely one of them is the island of Okinawa, Japan, where they live this philosophy of ikigai: what you love, what the world needs, what you could earn a living for, and what you really are good at and excel at.
The confluence of these four aspects represents the ikigaiyour reason for being, the purpose of life.
When people work in alignment with their purpose, they are more engaged and motivated in their work.
For example, if you are a leader of other people, seek to connect the individual goals of your collaborators with the mission and vision of the organization. By aligning personal purpose with organizational purpose, a powerful driving force is created that propels the team toward success.
6. shikata ga nai: Accept and let go
shikata ga nai It is a principle that reminds us that there are things that we cannot control and, in those cases, the option is to continue suffering, or accept them and move on.
As human beings it is important to recognize that we will not always be in full control of situations, and it is in those moments that we must exercise humility to accept the inevitable.
Instead of holding on to what we can’t change, let’s focus on what’s within our reach and how we can adapt and keep moving forward. In professional coaching we have a question to synthesize this concept: “What can I do in the face of what happens, that depends on me?”
7. kintsugi: accept your imperfections
In Japanese culture, kintsugi or the art of rebuilding, is a practice by which broken objects are repaired. Instead of masking or masking the cracks, they are made more visible by using gold dust or liquid silver.
This means, from his philosophy, that when it suffered damage and comes with its load of history, it becomes something more valuable, there is beauty in that crack, and it is worth showing these signs. Precisely those veins are what, literally, means the translation of the word kintsugi: “golden patch” or “fixation with gold”, which, as we know, is one of the precious metals.
Ancient Japanese principles for today
The challenges of life, blows, falls, emotional and physical wounds, the marks on our body, are only a part of who you are as a human being; it is not your totality. And, furthermore, in this physical plane there is no perfection, although we can aspire to excellence, which is to do the best, with a superior quality, permanently and with the available resources.
Remember: we have many resources available, if we know how to appreciate, search for and practice them daily, like these ancient Japanese principles. By embracing individuality, continuous improvement, acceptance of imperfection, emotional maturity, the search for purpose, and the ability to let go of what we cannot control, we can cultivate an environment of growth, inspiration, and success in both our personal lives and our lives. professional.
Daniel Colombo Facilitator and Executive Master Coach specialized in senior management, professionals and teams; mentor and professional communicator; international speaker; author of 31 books. LinkedIn Top Voice Latin America. ICF certified; Certified Coach and Member of the John Maxwell Team.