Japanese ideologies to help improve one’s life philosophy

Japanese people are known for being polite and for their good manners. There are different concepts and a set of rules that most Japanese people abide by. Perhaps, many people are familiar with the Japanese concept of Ikigai. Nonetheless, there are other ideologies that they also implement in their daily lives, which might allow one to adopt a theoretical perspective. 

Omoiyari – cultivate compassion in life and work

Omoiyari is considered an integral part of Japanese culture. This simply tells us to show compassion toward others. One of the ways they show kindness is by cleaning the public places they occupy. For instance, Japanese people made headlines during the 2022 FIFA World Cup after having made a habit of cleaning the stadium after every match. Omoiyari teaches us to be considerate and empathetic and practise it in all spheres all life. 

Wabi-sabi – find beauty everywhere including imperfections 

When you perceive things with love, it gradually evokes pleasant feelings. This teaches us to embrace imperfections and to be grateful. Trying to look at everything beautifully can help one change perspective about their life. Wabi-sabi shows us that looking for perfection in everything is futile. 

Gaman – preserve dignity in tough times

Even when we go through difficult phases in our lives, we must learn to handle things with emotional maturity and patience. Self-control in tough situations, being resilient, and understanding situations are all very important. This also encourages us to take care of our mental health by preserving our sanity through rough patches. 

Shikata ga nai – let go of what you cannot change

This concept signifies the importance of living in the moment and only focusing on what is in your control. Recognise things that you cannot change and don't worry about them. Rather we need to focus more on the present, accept the past and move on. 

Datsuzoku – escape from daily routine 

Datsuzoku urges one to deviate away from the norm and explore life differently. By exploring our surroundings, engaging in new experiences, and eating new dishes, we can explore life in a unique way. Creativity cannot be sparked by living a monotonous life. To practise Datsuzoku, we must break away from our usual pattern to truly feel alive and avoid lethargy.  

Kintsugi – golden repair

The word "kintsugi" translates to a golden journey. It also refers to wabi-sabi by appreciating imperfections and flaws. In essence, it's a Japanese form of art that involves repairing broken pottery by mending the areas with gold and silver lacquer. The end result leads to a beautiful outcome and inspires one to overlook the illusion of perfection. 

Kanso – simple and clutter-free life

This concept is one of the pillars of wabi-sabi. While wabi-sabi preaches the idea of finding beauty in every imperfection, Kanso tells us to focus more on things that are of absolute necessity. Functionality, simplicity, and elegance are at the forefront of this concept. Japanese houses and interiors are designed with Kanso dictating the outlook of the final product. 

Ho-Ren-So – report problems, inform, consult and communicate

This concept is very common in the Japanese realm of business. It is one of the basic manners when working in Japan. When someone faces a difficulty, the first thing is to report the issue, regardless of whether or not a solution exists. What this concept seeks to establish is that an issue unaddressed will be more costly to deal with later. Hence, it is better to communicate about it.  

Omotenashi – give without expecting rewards

Help and do good to others without expecting anything in return. The universe will eventually reward those who have given in some other way. 

Rifa Sanjida is a student of Class 12 in Chattogram Govt. Model College.