It has been five days since the beginning of 2023, and as usual, most of us have prompted ourselves to come up with a list of the so-called New Year's Resolutions which are unfortunately not carried out successfully as the year unfolds (well, at least for myself). These may be promises or goals to lose weight, save more money, buy a property, and list goes on. My goal for this year actually is to lose some weight and become more financially wise in spending money. Hopefully, I will be able to accomplish these targets for 2023.
In coming up with a strategy or motivation to attain our set goals for 2023, it is also ideal to make a change of habits and attitudes toward life in general. To help us develop a new sense of perspective about how we should live our lives the best way possible, we can use the 7 Japanese concepts which are now becoming popular in social media.
The first is ikigai which is the Japanese word for "life purpose." As a personal reflection, this concept is the most significant one since it will help you define your ideals, life choices, and direction. Once we realize and accept what our real purpose in life is, then everything will follow. For example, if I decide that being the "best" mother to my kids is my purpose in life is, then everything that I choose and act upon should be in support of this purpose. Hence, if I want to save money to acquire a property that will serve as our "home" where my kids can be sheltered, then that reflects my goal to give meaning to the my existence in this world.
The second one is shikita ga nai, a Japanese language phrase meaning "it cannot be helped" or "nothing can be done about it". This teaches us all to not worry about the things that are beyond our control and teaches us to focus on our own actions and decisions. It means that we should learn to accept whatever it is that is done and if our actions are far from making a difference from it, then we should accept and move on.
The third one is wabi-sabi, which is "an ancient Japanese philosophy that motions us to constantly search for the beauty in imperfection." This means that all of us should know and accept that nothing and no one is perfect. Each and every one of us has our own flaw and share of imperfections that must cause us to feel embarrassed about ourselves. Thus, if WWE learn to accept all our impefections, we will be happy and content with our lives.
Next is gaman, which is "a Japanese term of Zen Buddhist origin which means enduring the seemingly unbearable with patience and dignity. The term is generally translated as perseverance, patience, or tolerance." This teaches us to bear and endure more, to be more tolerant of situations most especially when we feel that we feel a sudden outburst of emotions. It means that we should always choose to be patient and have dignity in all situations even if it really challenges our ideals and beliefs. Self-restraint is always a strong attribute that all of us should learn to master.
The next three Japanese concepts in my next column. Stay tuned. =)