Japanese Terms by Rosary Reyes

Ikigai (生きがい)

reyesrosary5_ — 2023-11-23 10:20:00 UTC

Often translated as "a reason for being" or "a reason to wake up in the morning," ikigai is a concept that encompasses the joy and fulfillment one finds in life, typically through the convergence of one's passion, vocation, profession, and mission.

Kaizen (改善)

reyesrosary5_ — 2023-11-23 10:23:20 UTC

Literally meaning "change for better" or "continuous improvement," kaizen refers to the philosophy of making small, incremental improvements in various aspects of life or work. It emphasizes the idea that small, consistent efforts lead to significant positive changes over time.

Ganbatte (頑張って)

reyesrosary5_ — 2023-11-23 10:28:56 UTC

This term is often used to encourage someone to do their best or to persevere. It conveys a sense of determination, effort, and positive reinforcement.

Kintsugi (金継ぎ)

reyesrosary5_ — 2023-11-23 10:35:55 UTC

Translated as "golden repair," kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. It's a metaphor for embracing flaws and imperfections, finding beauty in the broken, and highlighting the process of healing and recovery.

Wabi-Sabi (侘寂)

reyesrosary5_ — 2023-11-23 10:46:26 UTC

Wabi-sabi is an aesthetic and worldview centered around the acceptance of imperfection and the beauty of impermanence. It encourages finding beauty in simplicity, humility, and the natural cycle of growth and decay

Yūgen (幽玄)

reyesrosary5_ — 2023-11-23 10:56:51 UTC

Yūgen is an aesthetic concept that suggests a profound, mysterious beauty that goes beyond what can be seen or expressed. It often inspires a sense of awe and reverence for the mysteries of existence.

Mono no Aware (物の哀れ)

reyesrosary5_ — 2023-11-23 11:00:40 UTC

This term refers to the bittersweet awareness of the impermanence of things and the transience of life. It encourages an appreciation for the fleeting beauty of moments and an understanding that change is an inherent part of life.

Shokunin (職人)

reyesrosary5_ — 2023-11-23 11:04:26 UTC

A term that refers to a craftsman or artisan who takes great pride in their work and strives for mastery. It embodies a strong work ethic, dedication, and a commitment to continuous improvement.