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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Ganbatte! summary
Albert Liebermann
The Japanese Art of Always Moving Forward
20 mins
Brief summary
Ganbatte! by Albert Liebermann delves into the Japanese principles of perseverance and resilience, offering insights on how these values can enhance personal and professional growth. It provides practical advice for adopting a motivated and diligent mindset.
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Ganbatte!
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Pushing forward through life’s inevitable challenges
Imagine being in a small boat, caught in the grip of a massive wave, where survival depends on relentless effort. The iconic artwork, The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai, captures this intense struggle. It’s a powerful reminder of the spirit of ganbatte – the Japanese concept of persevering with all your might.
The print portrays a group of rowers fighting against the furious sea, with Mount Fuji watching silently in the distance. The wave threatens to engulf them, but they can’t afford to hesitate. They must push forward, giving everything they have to escape the wave’s grasp.
This image serves as a metaphor for life itself. Sometimes, everything seems easy, as if you’re effortlessly gliding across calm waters. But there are moments when unforeseen challenges rise like towering waves, threatening to overwhelm you. In those times, like the rowers, you must keep pushing forward, learning from each experience.
Life’s waves are inevitable. Standing still leads to being swallowed by the tide, while moving forward, even when the outcome is uncertain, allows you to grow. The choice to keep going, to embrace the spirit of ganbatte, is what propels you through life’s storms.
There’s a story of the Buddhist monk Bodhidharma, known for his incredible discipline and dedication. He’s said to have meditated in a cave for years, completely still and focused, demonstrating unwavering perseverance. This tale connects to a Japanese proverb: “On a rock, for three years,” which suggests that even the hardest challenges can be overcome with enough patience and determination.
When you begin something new – whether it’s a job, a project, or a personal challenge – the early stages can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. You might struggle, feeling out of place or unsure of your abilities. But just as Bodhidharma remained steadfast in his meditation, you too can conquer difficulties if you persist. Persistence, even in the face of tough challenges, leads to eventual success.
This dedication is symbolized in the Daruma doll, a talisman that represents the pursuit of a goal. You paint one eye when you set your goal, and the other only when you achieve it. Displayed prominently, it serves as a daily reminder to stay committed to your aspirations.
So, when faced with challenges, remember Bodhidharma’s story. Perseverance, like sitting on a rock, will eventually lead to success. Embrace the spirit of ganbatte, and keep moving forward, no matter how tough things may seem.
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What is Ganbatte! about?
Ganbatte! (2021) focuses on the Japanese philosophy of doing your best with what you have, emphasizing resilience and the determination to keep going despite challenges. It guides you through practical steps to adopt the ganbatte mindset, offering insights on how to overcome obstacles, embrace failure, and cultivate a fulfilling life by continually pushing forward.
Who should read Ganbatte!?
- Personal development enthusiasts seeking resilience and growth strategies
- Entrepreneurs and professionals looking for motivation and perseverance tips
- Fitness enthusiasts and individuals pursuing consistent personal growth
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