Shoshi Shizen There is a popular TV program called “プレバト” in Japan. In it, Itsuki Natsui, a great haikuist, evaluates haiku written and submitted by contestants and give advice. There was a time I didn’t like one of the contestants there much, and I hoped he makes mistakes. But he doesn’t write badly. Over time I had … Read more
Have you ever wished for instant transformation? A lot of us have this desire to change more or less. When things weren’t looking up, I felt the need for this personal transformation. And when the work isn’t going well, I feel the inner doubt and this hasty feeling that I need to do something differently. … Read more
I’ve listened to an audiobook by Yuuri Eda(榎田ユウリ). It’s roughly translated as “A Cat and Glasses” (『猫とメガネ』出版社：文藝春秋) The protagonist of this novel thinks he’s logical but his wife thinks him insensitive. She has the power to make him happy. He doesn’t have power to make her happy. When he is confronted with this fact, what … Read more
I often could not rest when I was tired. I had about three fears of taking some rests. My first fear was that I had to suffer the consequences if I couldn’t accomplish my goals fast. I thought less experienced I was, harder I must work to become competent fast. I ignorantly believed harder I … Read more
Maybe you are not earning a lot of money now, and you might be afraid of someone who might look down on you. But you are doing your best for a long time. Your efforts will strengthen you, and you will be able to make your people happy, for sure. So, be confident and be … Read more
I have read Shu Yamaguchi(山口周)’s book from KADOKAWA publisher, original Japanese title of 『読書を仕事につなげる技術』（my translation example: “The Art of Making Reading Books Lead to Business Opportunities”） I think the title of this book great. When I first read it, I was moved to learn reading books can be a part of my work. As I … Read more
Since I was tired from focusing too much on work, I have listened to a Japanese audiobook by Hiroshi Mori, its title roughly translated as “The Power of Concentration is Overrated.” Or “Concentration, Not Necessary.” I am relieved to learn that I don’t need to concentrate on work all the time. The author says children … Read more
I have listened to an audiobook by Taishu Kawano. His job titles include psychiatrist, Buddhist priest, and author. The title of the book may be translated as “Reduce in Half” in English. I chose to listen to his audiobook, because I have so much to do, and not enough time doing all. I’d like to … Read more
I’ve listened to an audiobook by a French author, Clara Blanc. The title is roughly translated as “Effortless Living Only French People Know – Secret to Care for Oneself the Best Way.” In this book, Ms. Blanc recommends effortless living to Japanese people. Effortless meaning not showing too much effort or strain. From her book, … Read more
I have listened to a Japanese audiobook which title is roughly translated as “Leverage Reading,” by Naoyuki Honda. Sometimes we find books which we enjoy reading multiple times. And other times, we find books that we prefer not to read the second time. The author, Naoyuki Honda, says we don’t need to read the same … Read more