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Inner Transformation

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  Until my mid-twenties, I often struggled with a negative mindset and bouts of self-loathing. However, toward the end of my twenties, I set myself a major goal and soon faced a grueling two-year ordeal. Nothing went as planned, and I found myself mentally cornered. It was during this difficult time that I came across Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill (1883–1970). Looking back, I feel my encounter with that book was not a coincidence but rather inevitable. As I read it repeatedly, a new belief and passion began to grow within me. They became my emotional anchor, helping me endure and eventually overcome the challenge. That experience turned out to be a valuable success—one that laid the foundation for my lifelong mental resilience. At the same time, I unconsciously shifted toward a more positive mindset, and people around me began to see me differently. Of course, life since then has had its ups and downs, but even 37 years later, I remain conscious of maintaining a positive out...
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Two Paths to the Top

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  There are generally two types of people who rise to the top of an organization. The first type pursues the position itself—their goal is simply to become a top manager. The second type seeks the position as a means to achieve something meaningful. The former often acts out of self-interest, while the latter views becoming a top manager as a new beginning and strives to serve others. The difference between the two becomes evident in their expressions and behavior, shaped by how they bear the weight of responsibility. Those in the latter group often radiate a quiet, genuine light from within. This may be particularly true in Japan, though it might differ in other countries.
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Learning Through Practice

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  In Japan, there is a saying: “Narau yori narero” (Get used to it through repeated practice rather than learning), often paraphrased as “Practice makes perfect” or “Experience is the best teacher.” This proverb emphasizes the importance of not merely understanding theories, but of internalizing them—acquiring knowledge and skills through direct, repeated practice. It captures the very essence of practical learning. Closely related to this is another saying that reflects the mindset of a leader dedicated to developing others: “People will not move unless you show them, tell them, let them do it, and praise them. People will not grow unless you discuss with them, listen, approve, and leave them to their own devices. People will not bear fruit unless you watch over them with gratitude and trust them as they work.” Reflecting on my professional life, I am deeply impressed by the enduring truth of these words. This spirit has long been passed down in Japan, particularly through on-the-...
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Unsung Foundations

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  There is an old Japanese proverb, “En no shita no chikaramochi,” often paraphrased in English as “the power behind the façade” or “the unsung hero.” It refers to those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, supporting others without seeking recognition. The word “en” originally referred to the rafters that hold up a roof or support heavy roof tiles—an unseen but essential foundation. In society, we often view things from a self-centered perspective and interpret them in ways that suit us. Yet, by observing the world more broadly and attentively, we come to realize that society stands on the quiet efforts of countless unseen supporters. This proverb serves as a reminder and a warning against the arrogance that those in higher positions within organizations can easily fall into.
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The Curve of Growth

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  Sadaharu Oh (1940-), the home run king of Japanese baseball and later a celebrated manager, once said, “When a team or a player grows, they don’t just move up at a 45-degree angle. Growth rises so gradually that we can’t see the difference, and then it takes a sharp curve upward. Even during those gradual stages, it’s important for a manager to be patient and keep waiting.” This idea reflects both the “learning curve” in education and the “growth curve” in marketing. In any field, true progress demands persistent effort and continuous creativity. On this point, Mr. Oh also remarked, “Effort is always rewarded. If there is effort that goes unrewarded, it cannot truly be called effort.” At first glance, his words may seem strict. Yet they come from the experience of a man who endured many slumps and continually worked to bridge the gap between ideals and reality. Through unwavering perseverance, he repeatedly reached his goals. His message reminds us that genuine growth happens in ...
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Surpassing Ourselves

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  Setting goals inspired by people we admire and respect is an effective way to live a meaningful life. We are fortunate if such role models are close to us, but even if they are not, we can still look up to people living in our time—or even those from the past. Of course, we may never fully catch up to them, but anyone can move closer to their example. What is often overlooked, however, is that the true person we should strive to surpass is not others, but our past self. Today, surpass who we were yesterday; tomorrow, surpass who we are today. By continuing this quiet yet steady pursuit, we can grow deeply and meaningfully—both in our abilities and in our character.
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Mindful Notes

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  Even in our daily lives, simply writing down a few things that happened around us—whether or not we were directly involved—can bring about meaningful change. By recording what our inner self noticed, thought about, reflected on, learned, or decided to act upon, along with the changes that occurred both externally and emotionally, we begin to uncover valuable insights. From these accumulated notes, we may discover natural patterns and truths that benefit us, and by sharing them, we can also help others. In this way, focusing on and organizing the details of our seemingly ordinary days can lead to a richer, more mindful way of living—one that values each and every day.
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