The Power of Delayed Gratification and the Japanese Spirit of "明浄正直"

The Power of Delayed Gratification and the Japanese Spirit of "明浄正直"

In a world filled with instant gratification and constant distractions, it is becoming increasingly rare to find individuals who possess the ability to delay gratification and exhibit self-control. However, a study conducted by Stanford University reveals that this one quality is a key predictor of success in various aspects of life. Similarly, the Japanese culture has long embraced the values of "明浄正直" (meijōseijiki), which can be translated as honesty, purity, and integrity. By exploring the connection between delayed gratification and the Japanese spirit, we can uncover valuable insights that can enhance our personal and professional lives.

The Stanford research, famously known as "The Marshmallow Test," involved offering children a choice between an immediate reward (one marshmallow) or a larger reward (two marshmallows) if they were willing to wait for a certain period of time. The study found that those who demonstrated the ability to delay gratification and wait for the second marshmallow experienced numerous long-term benefits. These individuals scored higher on standardized tests, had lower rates of substance abuse and obesity, displayed better social skills, and were more adept at handling stress.

The essence of delayed gratification lies in choosing the pain of discipline over the ease of distraction. By teaching themselves to wait for a greater reward, individuals cultivate the mindset required for long-term success. The children in the study learned that waiting for gratification is worth it and that they have the capability to exercise self-control. This understanding empowered them to persevere in the face of challenges and make choices that aligned with their long-term goals.

Interestingly, the Japanese culture embodies a similar principle through the values of "明浄正直." Rooted in the country's geographical location as the eastern edge of the Eurasian continent, Japan has been the recipient of various philosophies and ideologies from East Asia. Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, Zen, and Shintoism have all converged in Japan, creating a unique blend of philosophical foundations. While these philosophies may seem distinct, they all emphasize the importance of honesty, purity, and integrity in one's actions and interactions.

To fully utilize the essence of the Japanese spirit in our lives, we must embrace the five philosophies that have accumulated in Japan. By incorporating the principles of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, Zen, and Shintoism, we can tap into a rich source of wisdom and guidance. Just as delayed gratification requires discipline and self-control, these philosophies provide a framework for making ethical decisions and leading a purposeful life.

It is important to note that delayed gratification and the ability to display self-control are not predetermined traits but are influenced by one's experiences and environment. This aligns with the Japanese concept of "enryo" or modesty, which emphasizes the idea of self-restraint and humility. By consciously creating an environment that supports delayed gratification and cultivates discipline, we can enhance our likelihood of success.

Now, the question arises: how can we practically incorporate delayed gratification and the Japanese spirit into our lives? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

• 1. Start small and make it easy: Begin by identifying a habit or goal that you want to cultivate. Make it incredibly easy to start, so you can't say no. For example, if you want to develop a daily meditation practice, start by committing to just one minute of meditation each day. By starting small, you eliminate the barriers to entry and build momentum for larger actions.

• 2. Improve one thing, by one percent: Rather than chasing monumental changes, focus on continuous improvement. Identify one area of your life that you want to enhance and strive for a one percent improvement each day. Over time, these incremental gains will compound and lead to significant progress.

• 3. Utilize the "Seinfeld Strategy": Comedian Jerry Seinfeld famously maintained consistency in his comedic writing by using a simple technique. He marked a calendar with an "X" for every day that he completed his writing practice. The goal was to never break the chain of "X's." By adopting a similar strategy, you can maintain consistency in any area of your life. Whether it's exercise, reading, or skill development, find a way to visually track your progress and hold yourself accountable.

In conclusion, the power of delayed gratification and the Japanese spirit of "明浄正直" can greatly impact our personal and professional lives. By choosing discipline over distraction, we can cultivate the mindset required for long-term success. Incorporating the philosophies of Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, Zen, and Shintoism allows us to tap into a deep well of wisdom and guidance. By taking small steps, continuously improving, and maintaining consistency, we can harness the power of delayed gratification and live a purposeful life aligned with the values of the Japanese spirit.