“Don’t Let Your Talent Rule You — Live with Heart Philosophy: The Equation of Life”

This time, Inamori* spoke about the above motto in Kyocera philosophy.

What Inamori said is quoted with “”.

” In the formula for life and work results — *Results = Ability × Enthusiasm × Mindset* — I sometimes use the word “talent” in place of “ability.” We often hear the warning, ‘Don’t let talent control you.’ Talented people are prone to rushing ahead, relying too heavily on their abilities, and ultimately outsmarting onesel. But it is the heart that must guide one’s talent. If the heart is lost and all that remains is raw ability or business acumen, one is destined to fail — as the saying goes, ‘A gifted person is ruined by their own gift.’ This is why the heart — or, more precisely, one’s mindset — is of utmost importance. “

Mr. Inamori cautioned strongly against the danger of being consumed by one’s own ability. Many people born in postwar Japan, especially in the Showa era, received a solid education, attended prestigious universities, and joined elite companies. This generation went on to raise the next. As a result, many people now in their 30s to 70s may be prone to relying too heavily on their talent.

In our new business venture, we are exploring an executive advisory service that integrates the philosophy of **Sanmei-gaku** (Fate-Based Asian Metaphysics). Drawing from its insights, I’ve identified three key attitudes to help prevent people from being consumed by their own talents:

Let me explain them one by one.

1. Stay humble and avoid arrogance

“ Even if your modest and humble behavior leads others to look down on you, it is those who mock humility who are in the wrong. Some small business owners, once they start to make a bit of profit, become arrogant and self-important. But with such an attitude, further growth is unlikely.

Even when divine forces grant a company success and prosperity, if the leader loses humility and becomes prideful, they often find themselves quickly falling into financial trouble again. ”

>> According to Sanmei, there are moments in life when people experience unexpected fortune or extraordinary success—something far beyond their usual capabilities. In such times, it is crucial not to become conceited. As Mr. Inamori once said, “It takes great discipline to endure favorable circumstances.”

We often hear about enduring hardship, but enduring prosperity requires just as much, if not more, mindfulness and restraint. When you’re aware that the results you are achieving exceed your true capabilities, that is precisely the moment to stay humble and redouble your efforts. True growth comes not from resting on unearned success, but from continuing to improve, even when things are going well.

2. Guard against gaps in the heart (emotional blind spots)

” Even the most honest person may find themselves tempted if they’re entrusted with a safe full of cash. Human beings are all vulnerable to momentary lapses—those cracks in the heart through which misjudgment can slip in, sometimes leading even good people to commit wrongdoings. “

>> Even highly intelligent individuals tend to be resourceful and skilled at navigating the world. They usually avoid anything that could harm themselves and are often keenly aware of laws, systems, and loopholes. With such sharp minds, they might spot opportunities for profit where others don’t.

However, there comes a crucial fork in the road:

Will they use their cleverness to manipulate the system for selfish gain, or will they apply their talents for the greater good?

In the worldview of *Sanmei-gaku*, some people are born under the influence of a “Star of Wisdom.” These individuals are expected by the heavens to study hard and channel their intellect into meaningful contributions—innovative business ideas, social betterment, or uplifting others. If they fail to do so, their brilliance may eventually backfire. Misused intelligence has a way of turning into one’s downfall.

3. Work diligently, no matter the task

” To devote oneself to something means to give one’s best effort with sincerity and persistence. Such diligence not only brings rewards but also cultivates one’s character, refines one’s spirit, and leads to personal growth. This is the deeper reward of wholehearted effort. “

>> For most of us, work is a central pillar of life. In *Sanmei-gaku*, a person’s fate reveals not only their innate talents but also how heaven intends them to contribute through their work. By understanding this divine design, we can uncover the kinds of roles or tasks that align with our highest purpose.

Here’s what we observe time and again:

Those who work diligently—regardless of hardship—can shift their destiny in a positive direction. Even if their starting point is difficult, earnest effort leads to a meaningful and fulfilling life.

On the other hand, no matter how exceptional their destiny may be, those who refuse to face challenges and avoid hard work will eventually have to pay the price for it.

The way we live, the choices we make, and our attitude toward work all shape whether we will succeed or fall into frustration and regret.

Ironically, those who are especially intelligent or talented often look down on hard work, as if it’s something for the less capable. But it’s exactly this mindset that causes gifted individuals to squander their potential—what Inamori refers to in his life equation.

Conclusion

* Mr. Kazuo Inamori, the founder of Kyocera, KDDI (one of the top tele communication companies in Japan) and the top of revitalization project of JAL. As a well-known Japanese entrepreneur, he has been sharing his experiences and management know-how with managements of small to middle companies in Japan.

Further queries or doubts, please email to ytomizuka@abrilsjp.com

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