A Journey through My Diverse Perspectives

  One of the most significant changes in my mental state before and after retirement is the peace of mind that comes with having more free time each day. Before retiring, my thoughts were consumed by work, leaving me indifferent to the beauty of nature and the subtle shifts that come with the seasons and the passage of time. However, after retirement, I became surprisingly attuned to these details. With newfound tranquility, I began to sense a deep connection with nature, recognizing that I am merely a small part of a vast, ever-changing world. Another profound shift was my growing awareness of life’s impermanence. While the abundance of free time brought me peace, it also heightened my understanding that life has an inevitable end—though its timing remains unknown. This realization deepened my resolve to cherish each day. I began to focus on what truly matters to me, free from the concerns of how others perceive me, a mindset that had often influenced me before retirement. To unco...

  In ancient Japan, there was a saying: “Everything has a soul.” This philosophy reflects a deep reverence for nature and recognizes the profound connection between humans and the natural world. It is rooted in respect and harmony, emphasizing the importance of living in balance with one’s surroundings. Closely related to this idea is the concept of "Nakaima"—the belief that the present exists at the intersection of the past and future, and that true living comes from aligning one’s awareness with the present moment. This perspective encourages a way of life that values presence and mindfulness. Another Japanese proverb expands on this philosophy: “Making a Buddha without putting a soul into it.” This means that if one merely carves a statue without infusing it with spirit or meaning, the effort is ultimately hollow. It serves as a reminder that true mastery requires more than just technical skill—it demands a deeper essence, cultivated through dedication and experience. Even...

  The human brain is naturally inclined to conserve energy, avoiding unnecessary exertion whenever possible. As a result, even when we set ambitious goals and feel a surge of motivation, sustaining that enthusiasm over time can be challenging. This is because conscious effort requires energy, and our brains tend to favor efficiency, often leading to procrastination or reluctance when tasks feel burdensome. However, if we transform essential actions into habits—performing them unconsciously rather than through sheer willpower—persistence becomes much easier. Establishing such habitual behaviors leads to consistent results. Moreover, as we accumulate small successes, we build trust and confidence in ourselves. Recognizing the power of habit formation further reinforces our ability to stay committed. Goals aren’t limited to physical achievements; they can be mental as well. For instance, cultivating positive thinking as a habit encourages constructive actions, increasing the likelihoo...

  Since we live in an external world that maintains perfect balance, we must also strive for harmony within our internal world—without disrupting the external order—and put our insights into practice. For leaders who wield significant authority and influence, it is especially crucial to navigate the relationship between the internal and external worlds effectively. A leader may make a well-considered decision (an internal process), yet in execution, it may push too hard, veer off course, or exhaust those involved. To maintain balance, leaders must remain attuned to people's reactions and circumstances, adjusting course with courage when necessary. One of the most essential leadership qualities, therefore, is self-awareness—understanding one's role without arrogance, setting aside personal interests, and calmly guiding collaborators. By consistently applying the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle, leaders can bridge the internal and external worlds, ensuring decisions lead in a posi...

  To effectively manage ourselves in pursuit of ambitious goals, it is beneficial to continually reinforce highly positive self-suggestions—almost as if we are deliberately cultivating unwavering self-belief. This mental conditioning increases the likelihood of success. By creating a sense of urgency, eliminating escape routes, committing to sustained effort and resilience, and instilling deep confidence—however unfounded it may initially seem—we can unlock abilities that surpass our perceived limits. When the goal extends beyond the individual to an organization, a leader who undergoes such self-transformation through autosuggestion earns the respect and trust of others. This trust is a crucial foundation for securing their full cooperation, ultimately driving the organization toward its objectives.

  We are both the owners and top managers of the company called “Self,” as well as the workers on the front lines. Our lives become more fulfilling when we learn to manage our thoughts effectively within a collective society. For example, by honestly accepting our past failures and recognizing that they have shaped who we are today, we can find satisfaction without comparing ourselves to others or feeling envious. At the same time, when ambition drives us to disappointment, cultivating gratitude and understanding what is “enough” can help us maintain balance and peace of mind. Another key perspective is acknowledging the biological finite nature of human existence. While youth often brings a sense of limitless time, as we grow older, we come to understand the importance of making the most of each moment. Reminding ourselves of life’s impermanence can serve as a powerful motivation to live fully and with purpose. Looking back from retirement, I realize that adopting this mindset ear...

  Taking care of the things around us brings numerous benefits. By tending to our belongings, we develop a sense of attachment to them, and being surrounded by familiar, well-maintained objects creates a calmer and more fulfilling environment. For professionals, caring for their tools fosters a deep sense of trust between themselves and their instruments. This bond enables them to achieve better results with greater ease, as their tools respond reliably to their skill and effort. Similarly, those who value and take care of their time are more conscious of living in the present, allowing them to lead lives with fewer regrets. They also come to understand an important rule of thumb: time can sometimes be an ally in solving problems that seem unsolvable in the moment. By recognizing this, they develop a deeper appreciation for the nature of time and ultimately form a harmonious relationship with it. In shared spaces, people who respect and maintain their surroundings recognize the uni...