I AM CONNECTED TO JAPAN IN MANY WAYS. Family, friends, and my study of the Japanese language and Shito-Ryu karate. Today, I want to explore 7 ways you can use Japanese philosophy to fuel success.
I often turn to Japanese philosophy. It is a rich tapestry of ancient wisdom with much to offer me for personal and professional achievement.
From Zen Buddhism to the concept of Kaizen, these philosophies provide invaluable insights into how to set and attain my goals, manage stress, and foster a harmonious life.
In this essay, we’ll explore the key tenets of Japanese philosophy and how you can apply them to your everyday life to fuel achievement. Let’s get to the 7 ways you can use Japanese philosophy to fuel success.
1. The Power of Mindfulness
At the heart of Zen Buddhism is the practice of mindfulness, which encourages us to be fully present in the moment.
Mindfulness is a valuable tool for achievement because it allows us to focus all our energy and attention on the task.
Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh offered this insight:
“The present moment is the only moment available to us, and it is the door to all moments.”
In other words, by fully engaging in the present, we can optimize our efforts and achieve our goals.
Mindfulness: Personal Application
Let me give you an example. A 2023 online survey discovered that trait mindfulness was associated with better cognitive functioning and academic achievement in college students.
Perceived stress partially or fully mediated the relationship between trait mindfulness and perceived cognitive functioning.
Only decentering, however, was associated with a higher grade point average GPA.
A prerequisite common to mindfulness practice and cognitive therapy is learning that we do not have to believe all of our thoughts. This approach is known as decentering.
Decentering takes a figurative step back from our beliefs and thoughts. Instead of “I can’t do anything right,” one learns one had a thought: “I cannot do anything right.”
In cognitive therapy, you then dispute irrational thoughts. In mindfulness, you non-judgmentally notice thoughts and let go. For either approach, it is key to learn that we do not need to believe all our thoughts.
In summary, lower stress can explain the association between mindfulness and better cognitive functioning, but not necessarily academic achievement.
2. The Power of Kaizen: Continuous Improvement
Kaizen is a Japanese term that means “continuous improvement.” This philosophy encourages small, incremental changes over time to achieve significant results.
It’s the idea that constant, gradual progress can lead to significant achievements. Kaizen is particularly popular in the business world, where companies like Toyota have used it to transform their operations.
I first encountered Kaizen as a new physician at Virginia Mason Medical Center (Seattle, USA). The hospital was a national leader in applying the Toyota Production System into clinical practice.
Mindfulness: Personal Application
Recently, teams have applied mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) to improve athletic performance and mental health.
A 2023 study provides a systemic overview and meta-analysis of the existing evidence on the effects on athletes of mindfulness practices on the following:
- Athletic performance
- Mindfulness level
- Psychological variables (including acceptance, self-compassion, and flow)
- Mental health (stress, burnout, psychological well-being)
The systemic review included 32 randomized clinical trials. The meta-analysis involved seven of these studies. Here are the findings:
Mindfulness practices promoted athletes athletic performance, mindfulness level, mindfulness-related psychological components.
Mindfulness practices did not affect the mental health of the athletes. The researchers concluded that the findings support the potential effectiveness of mindfulness practices in athletes.
Still, more high-quality randomized clinical trials are needed.
3. The Power of Wabi-Sabi: Embracing Imperfection
Wabi-Sabi (侘寂) is a concept that finds beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and the incomplete.
It encourages us to embrace the flaws and imperfections in our journey towards achievement. I previously wrote this provocative piece on Medium on how I use wabi-sabi:
https://drmichaelhunter.medium.com/how-i-use-the-japanese-art-of-kintsugi-in-the-practice-of-medicine-963dce204296?sk=8afaf93d0b149b2cb66c12cc27ce9687
In the world of constant self-improvement and achievement, Wabi-Sabi reminds us to appreciate the process and not just the result.
It’s a philosophy that encourages contentment with where we are while striving for better.
4. Ikigai: Finding Your Purpose
Ikigai (生き甲斐; ee-key-guy) is a Japanese term that means “a reason for being.” It’s the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
Examples of ikigai could include aspects related to one’s social identity, like work or family, or the pursuit of self-realization, such as travel or hobbies, activities that are seen as ends in themselves.
Identifying your Ikigai can provide a sense of purpose and direction, fueling achievement. It’s about aligning your goals and actions with your passions and values.
Ikigai is one of my favorite Japanese philosophies. While it is associated with a longer and happier life, knowing your ikigai can help you in several ways:
- Design your ideal work lifestyle
- Make strong social connections at work
- Pursue your career dreams
- Enjoy your wok
- Create a healthy work-life balance
5. Mottainai: Reducing Waste
Mottainai (もったいない or 勿体無い; moat-tie-nigh) is a concept that encourages the efficient use of resources and a sense of respect for the value of things.
In the context of achievement, it teaches us not to waste our time, energy, or opportunities.
By being mindful of what we have and making the most of it, we can drive ourselves toward success while reducing waste.
6. Bushido: The Way of the Warrior
Bushido (武士道) is the traditional code of conduct for Japanese samurai. The word may be translated as the “way of the warrior.”
While not all aspects of Bushido apply to modern life, its emphasis on discipline, loyalty, and honor inspires a strong work ethic and determination to pursue achievement.
It reminds us to persevere with unwavering dedication.
7. The Art of Tea and Patience
The Japanese tea ceremony, known as chanoyu (茶の湯) or sadō/chadō (茶道), is a ritual that emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, patience, and attention to detail.
We can apply these principles to help achieve our goals.
By cultivating patience and taking the time to appreciate the journey, we can make our achievements more meaningful.
Final Thoughts — 7 Ways You Can Use Japanese Philosophy to Fuel Success
Japanese philosophy offers a wealth of wisdom that can empower us to achieve our goals.
From Zen Buddhism’s mindfulness to the Kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement and the embracing of imperfection through Wabi-Sabi, these philosophies provide practical tools for success.
Finding one’s Ikigai, minimizing waste through Mottainai, embracing the discipline of Bushido, and practicing patience through the art of tea all contribute to a well-rounded approach to achievement.
In a world characterized by relentless pursuit and stress, these principles offer a refreshing and sustainable path toward accomplishment.
By incorporating these philosophies into our daily lives, we can discover new ways to attain our goals and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Let a little ancient wisdom guide your modern-day life. Do you practice any of these philosophies?
Thank you for reading “Japanese Philosophy and You.”
