This time, Inamori* spoke about the above motto in Kyocera philosophy.
What Inamori said is quoted with “”.
“ Most success stories have told you the same motto. In religions, for example Buddhism, it says that you directly or indirectly cause everything that happens around you. Your subliminal mind brings you unfortunate events or makes your company underperforming. In other words, it is a universal truth that strong and sustained thoughts will come true. Of course, you can use this subliminal mind but the fact is your success must be driven by your desire.
Many people do not believe how this subliminal works. Therefore, they look at successful people and imitate the approaches which those winners took. However, they do not have such a strong desire, they eventually fail. Your desire for just a couple of days never brings you success. Even when you desire for a year, your success may not be guaranteed. The issue is how strong your desire is, this is not a matter of length but the amount of energy and passion you keep in your subliminal mind. “
There are people blessed with talent and have strong desires, but don’t become successful. I think there must be the following three reasons why they remain unsuccessful.
1. They put less effort into it
2. Ignore their own shortcomings
3. They lack humbleness and honesty
Let me explain them one by one.
1. They put less effort into it
“ So I worked hard because of that fear, and looking back today, I think it was not a mistake. No matter what kind of recession we encounter, no matter what harsh environment we face, I still firmly believe that working harder than anyone else is the minimum requirement for becoming a good leader and fulfill your life. “
(Quoted from Inamori Digital Library)
→ Some people do not understand how good and ideal environment they are working in. They do not make the effort that they are supposed to do. That’s why they are unable to make the best use of the opportunity. Looking back on my own past and present, I ask myself if I am making enough effort or not. Am I making excuses for not bringing my fullest efforts into my work? Am I living every day seriously? I will constantly check whether I am sincerely facing the people I am involved with now.
2. Ignore their own shortcomings
” An executive from a government agency was about to leave at the regular time (there was no company car) they he started yelling in a very angry tone, ‘The sales manager used my car!! (His title was lower than mine, he was not supposed to use my car!!)’ “
→ This executive probably lived a daily life like this – not doing his job seriously, prioritizing his pride above all else, and causing troubles for those around him. Probably no one around him has ever advised him this is not nice. Even if someone did, he probably wouldn’t listen, thinking, “How dare you can advice me, ha?” I think this is behavior that makes his life miserable. I would like to reflect on myself every day to see if I behave in this way or not.
3. They lack humbleness and honesty
“ Those who can reflect themselves are naturally humble. I like to tell you the words of the Chinese classics, ‘Only those who are humble will receive good fortune.’ Only a humble life can bring good fortune. If you are not a humble person, you will never be lucky. No matter how great a thing you do, you must not be arrogant. I always say this, but in order to live a humble life, you must live a life of self-reflection. “
(Quoted from the Inamori Digital Library.)
→ When someone points out my shortcomings, I must listen openly and obediently. I must appreciate his/her advice, and I would like to keep improving my behaviors. I think this kind of attitude is important. I would like to continue to improve, feeling grateful for the harsh words I receive.
In summary, it is important to have strong and sustained aspirations. However, at the same time, it is also important to be humble, honest, and make an effort to correct your shortcomings. I think that such attitudes are the key to turning aspirations into reality.
* 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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