In the ever-evolving landscape of our professional lives, we often find ourselves part of various “leagues” – be it in terms of assets, job roles, career paths, or expertise. As the new year unfolds, it’s an opportune time to reflect on where we stand in these leagues and more importantly, to decide how we canContinue reading “Embracing Change and Growth in the Workplace: Lessons from the “Fishbowl””
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Celebrating the New Year and the Lengthening Days: A Tribute to Ancient Traditions and Natural Rhythms
As we step into January, embracing the New Year, there’s something deeply comforting about the gradual lengthening of days. This subtle yet profound change in daylight is not just a meteorological phenomenon but a powerful symbol, deeply rooted in ancient traditions and our connection to the natural world. The Winter Solstice: A Turning Point inContinue reading “Celebrating the New Year and the Lengthening Days: A Tribute to Ancient Traditions and Natural Rhythms”
The Power of Personal Touch in Sales: Lessons from a New Year’s Greeting
As the clock chimed midnight and fireworks lit up the sky, signaling the advent of another year, I found myself reflecting on the importance of connections — not just personal but also professional. In the world of commission-based sales, where every interaction counts, the challenge is to make each connection meaningful. This year, I decidedContinue reading “The Power of Personal Touch in Sales: Lessons from a New Year’s Greeting”
The Intriguing Linguistic Journey of ‘Saving Face’ in East Asian Languages
In the rich tapestry of East Asian languages, the expressions for “saving face” or “maintaining dignity” are not only culturally significant but also reveal fascinating linguistic exchanges. The Japanese and Korean phrases for this concept, in particular, demonstrate a unique blend of languages and cultures. In Korean, the expression used is “가오를 잡다,” which, whenContinue reading “The Intriguing Linguistic Journey of ‘Saving Face’ in East Asian Languages”
Navigating Japan’s Unique Year-End Holidays in a Global Workplace
As someone working in a global company where people from all corners of the world come together, one of the unique challenges I face annually is explaining the peculiar timing of Japan’s year-end holidays to my colleagues from other countries. Unlike the more universally recognized Christmas or Lunar New Year holidays, Japan’s extended break typicallyContinue reading “Navigating Japan’s Unique Year-End Holidays in a Global Workplace”
A Critical Examination of Japan’s Reaction to Earthquakes: Echoes of a Totalitarian Past
Introduction:Japan’s unique response to earthquakes, often encapsulated by the phrase “Nihon sugoi” (Japan is amazing), reveals a concerning parallel with its pre-World War II totalitarian history. This blog post aims to critically examine this phenomenon, arguing that such reactions, while seemingly benign, may actually perpetuate unhealthy nationalistic sentiments reminiscent of a darker past. Historical Echoes:Japan’sContinue reading “A Critical Examination of Japan’s Reaction to Earthquakes: Echoes of a Totalitarian Past”
Embracing the New Year in Japan: A Blend of Tradition, Family, and Festivity
In Japan, January 1st holds a somewhat religious significance, much like how people in other parts of the world celebrate Lunar New Year or Christmas. It’s a day when families, often living far apart, come together to celebrate the beginning of a new year. This gathering is not just a social event; it carries deepContinue reading “Embracing the New Year in Japan: A Blend of Tradition, Family, and Festivity”
The Two Pillars of Success: Health and Determination
In the pursuit of success, numerous theories and suggestions have been proposed, each presenting a different set of criteria deemed essential for achieving it. However, a profound Japanese concept encapsulates the essence of success in just two fundamental conditions: being healthy and having an unwavering commitment. The phrase ‘腹を括る’ evokes a sense of intense resolve,Continue reading “The Two Pillars of Success: Health and Determination”
A Memorable Stay at a Luxury Hotel: Worth Every Penny
Recently, I had the pleasure of treating my parents to a stay at a luxurious hotel, costing 300,000 Won per night. This experience turned out to be more than just a simple getaway; it was a journey into the world of elegance and comfort, leaving us with the profound realization that some things are indeedContinue reading “A Memorable Stay at a Luxury Hotel: Worth Every Penny”
Finding My Own Path in a Family of Thinkers
Growing up in a family deeply rooted in academic and professional rigor, I was always surrounded by a world of logic and reasoning. My father, a lawyer in Japan, exemplifies precision and analytical thinking. My younger brother, continuing the tradition, serves as an Assistant Professor in Physics at The University of Tokyo. In our household,Continue reading “Finding My Own Path in a Family of Thinkers”
Learning Science Through Entrepreneurship: A Personal Journey
As someone who initially lacked a scientific background, I have come to believe that the only way for people like me to acquire scientific literacy is through the school of hard knocks – by investing in and running a business. This approach forces you to grapple with the basics of mathematics, such as addition andContinue reading “Learning Science Through Entrepreneurship: A Personal Journey”
The Endless Cycle of ‘살림’: Finding Meaning in the Never-Ending Journey of Housework
The phrase “집안일은 끝이 없어요” translates to “Housework is never-ending.” This sentiment is echoed in the Korean word “살림,” which refers to the act of managing a household. It’s a concept that highlights the ongoing, cyclical nature of domestic tasks, a sentiment that anyone who has ever been responsible for a home can relate to.Continue reading “The Endless Cycle of ‘살림’: Finding Meaning in the Never-Ending Journey of Housework”