9 Japanese Concepts To Help Us Lead A Good Life

Some days back, a dear friend shared on WhatsApp a pdf write-up on nine Japanese concepts we should know.

Japanese culture blends tradition with modernity and the nine concepts presented represent wisdom that is essential for anyone living a graceful, balanced, and good life. 

Whenever I come across anything inspiring, I like to share it with my readers. With the permission of my friend, I am reproducing below the key concepts.

Oubaitori

Never compare yourself. Everyone blossoms in their own time in different ways. Don’t judge yourself by someone else’s path.

Kaizen

Continuously improve. Constantly strive to improve across all areas of your life. Small changes accumulate and make all the difference.

Wabi-Sabi.

Embrace imperfection. Nothing lasts, nothing is complete. Accept your own flaws and those of others. Find beauty in imperfection.

Mottainai

Don’t be wasteful. Everything deserves respect and gratitude. Recognize the value in what’s around you and don’t waste it.

Gaman

 Have dignity during duress. Hard times need to be met with emotional maturity and self-control. We need patience, perseverance, + tolerance.

Yuugen

Appreciate mysterious beauty. Often we FEEL the beauty in an object without it being stunning to look at. Discover subtle beauty beyond aesthetics. Experience something words cannot describe.

Ikigai

Know your reason for being. Define the reason you get up in the morning. Make it something you are good at, passionate about, and that the world needs. THIS is meaning.

Shikita Ga Nai

Accept and let go. Some things simply aren’t within our control. Accept what you cannot change, and move on.

Omoiyari

Show consideration for others. Life is better when we care for others. Be thoughtful. Build compassion.