Are You on the Right Train? A Journey Through Japanese Wisdom
Self discover series
Life often feels like a train ride.
We board with excitement, unsure of the exact destination, but hopeful it’s the right one.
Yet, there are moments when we glance out the window and realize we’re heading in the wrong direction.
What do we do then?
As the Japanese saying goes:
"If you get on the wrong train, immediately you realize it, get off at the next nearest station. The longer it takes you to get off, the more expensive the return trip will be."
This profound metaphor invites us to pause and reflect: Are we moving toward a life we truly want, or are we stuck on a path that no longer serves us?
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The Courage to Step Off
Stepping off the wrong train isn’t easy—it requires self-awareness and courage. But as another Japanese proverb reminds us: “七転び八起き” (Nanakorobi yaoki) – “Fall seven times, stand up eight.”
Mistakes aren’t failures; they’re opportunities to rise again, stronger and wiser.
Let’s make this interactive. Think about your life right now:
- Are you in a career that fulfills you?
- Are your relationships nurturing or draining?
- Are your habits building you up or pulling you down?
If something feels off, it’s time to act. As ‘Shigeta Saito’ beautifully said: “If you have no failure in life, you will fail in life.” Don’t fear mistakes—they’re stepping stones to growth.
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Life’s Detours: Lessons in Disguise
Japanese proverbs often highlight resilience and patience. Take this one: “石の上にも三年” (Ishi no ue ni mo san-nen) – “Sitting on a stone for three years.” It teaches us that perseverance can transform even the coldest stone into warmth.
But what if sitting on that stone no longer serves us?
Then it’s time to move.
Here’s another gem: “明日は明日の風が吹く” (Ashita wa ashita no kaze ga fuku) – “Tomorrow’s wind will blow tomorrow.” This reminds us not to dwell too much on what lies ahead.
Focus on today—on taking that first step toward change.
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Practical Wisdom for Everyday Life
1. Self-Awareness: Regularly check if your train is heading where you want to go. Journaling or meditation can help clarify your path.
2. Take Action:As “案ずるより産むが易し” (Anzuru yori umu ga yasushi) suggests: “Giving birth is easier than worrying about it.” Often, action is less daunting than overthinking.
3. **Cherish Each Moment:The proverb “一期一会” (Ichigo ichie) – “One encounter, one chance”reminds us to appreciate every experience as unique and fleeting.
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Books That Echo These Lessons
- "Atomic Habits"by James Clear: A guide to small changes that lead to big transformations.
- "The Alchemist"by Paulo Coelho: A tale about finding your personal legend and adjusting course when needed.
-"Ikigai" by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles: Insights into the Japanese philosophy of living with purpose.
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Your Turn
Think of one area in your life where you feel stuck. What’s one small step you can take today to “get off at the next station”?
Share your thoughts in the comments below—your story might inspire someone else!
As another Japanese saying goes: “猿も木から落ちる” (Saru mo ki kara ochiru) – “Even monkeys fall from trees.”
Even experts stumble, but what matters is how quickly they climb back up.
Don’t let fear keep you on the wrong train—it’s never too late to reroute your journey.
Sources
[1] Timeless Japanese Quotes: Wisdom, Perseverance, Love ... - Italki https://www.italki.com/en/blog/japanese-quotes
[2] Boost Your Japanese Conversation Skills with These 20 Proverbs https://preply.com/en/blog/japanese-proverbs/
[3] Japanese Quotes That Will Enrich Your Life - JapanesePod101 https://www.japanesepod101.com/blog/2021/03/04/japanese-quotes/
[4] 10 Japanese Proverbs You Need to Know for Daily Inspiration https://www.japaneseexplorer.com.sg/japanese-proverbs/
[5] 18 Inspirational Japanese Quotes And Their Meanings - Lingopie https://lingopie.com/blog/japanese-quotes/
[6] What are your favourite Japanese quotes/proverbs? : r/LearnJapanese https://www.reddit.com/r/LearnJapanese/comments/qaf5zz/what_are_your_favourite_japanese_quotesproverbs/
[7] 47 Japanese Proverbs about Life, Love, and Wisdom to Inspire You ... https://www.fluentin3months.com/japanese-proverbs/
[8] 21 Beautiful Japanese Proverbs That Are Invaluable Life Lessons https://www.pinterest.com/pin/325174035595036246/