The Real Reason Japanese Companies Continue to Hold Morning Meetings that Almost Everyone Considers Useless - Have You Ever Organized Ordinary People?

The Real Reason Japanese Companies Continue to Hold Morning Meetings that Almost Everyone Considers Useless - Have You Ever Organized Ordinary People?

Morning meetings, also known as "chorei," have long been a staple in Japanese companies. Despite the majority of employees considering them a waste of time, these meetings continue to persist. So, what is the real reason behind this phenomenon? And have you ever organized a group of ordinary individuals?

To understand the persistence of morning meetings, we need to examine the evolution of organizations. The progression is often defined as Red (dominant management by individuals) → Amber (adherence to roles) → Orange (merit-based with changing roles based on performance) → Green (acknowledgment of initiative and diversity) → Teal (organizations operating as living organisms).

In this context, Teal is considered the ideal state for organizations. It emphasizes self-management, wholeness, and evolutionary purpose. Morning meetings, despite their perceived uselessness, can be seen as a remnant of the Amber and Orange stages. They serve as a way to ensure everyone is aligned with their roles and responsibilities, maintaining a semblance of order within the organization.

But why do these meetings persist even when most employees find them unproductive? Perhaps one reason is the fear of change. Japanese companies are known for their conservative culture and resistance to change. Morning meetings have become deeply ingrained in their organizational structure, and breaking away from this tradition may be seen as disruptive or disrespectful.

Moreover, morning meetings can also serve as a means of communication and information sharing. In a hierarchical society like Japan, it is crucial for employees to receive updates from their superiors and for superiors to have a platform to disseminate important information. While there may be more efficient ways to achieve this, morning meetings provide a familiar and established method.

Now, let's shift our focus to the insights shared by Kazuto Ataka in his article "If You Want a Future, Don't Just Live Through Business Cards, Become Somebody." Ataka emphasizes the importance of facing challenges head-on and not shying away from difficult situations. He believes that true fulfillment can be found by embracing opportunities that others might avoid.

Ataka's philosophy aligns with the idea that growth comes from overcoming obstacles. The more challenges we face and conquer, the more we develop as individuals. It is through these experiences that we gain wisdom and perspective. Those who have overcome adversity carry the weight of their words, and their advice holds immense value.

Ataka also highlights the importance of taking ownership of our lives. He emphasizes that the world may not be designed to cater to our individual needs, but we have the freedom to create our own place in it. This resonates with the concept of self-management in Teal organizations, where individuals are encouraged to take initiative and shape their own destinies.

In conclusion, while morning meetings may seem like a pointless tradition, they serve a purpose in maintaining order and communication within Japanese organizations. However, it is essential to evaluate their effectiveness and explore alternative methods of achieving the same outcomes. As for individuals, embracing challenges and taking ownership of our lives can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to consider:

1. Embrace change: Don't be afraid to challenge established norms and seek more efficient ways of achieving goals within your organization.

2. Face challenges head-on: Instead of avoiding difficult situations, confront them with determination. The more obstacles you overcome, the more you will grow as an individual.

3. Take ownership of your life: Don't rely on others to dictate your path. Take initiative, discover your strengths, and create your own opportunities for success.

Remember, the journey to self-improvement and organizational evolution starts with individuals who are willing to question the status quo and embrace change. So, let go of the useless and embrace the transformative.