In the iconic Japanese artwork, “The Great Wave off Kanagawa,” we witness the sublime power of nature, with towering waves capable of instilling both awe and fear. It is perhaps the most emblematic works of all time. The sea waves are a fabulous metaphor for life. Much like these waves, life is filled with challenges that can leave us feeling small and insignificant. Yet, just as one cannot control the ocean, we have the power to change our response to it.
Reflecting on my journey, I recall several occasions when I faced what felt like insurmountable waves. Early in my career, I embarked on a series of startup ventures. Each endeavor, while filled with promise, ultimately crashed down like a poorly built boat against a roaring tide. I faced rejection, lost funding, and grappled with self-doubt. The sting of failure was palpable, and with every setback, the inclination to retreat to safer shores grew stronger. But with every wave that threatened to engulf me, I learned something invaluable: resilience.
During this tumultuous time, I stumbled upon the Japanese concept of “Ganbatte,” which translates to The Art of Always Moving Forward, or “persevere.” This philosophy emphasizes the importance of effort and tenacity in the face of adversity. Inspired by this mindset, I decided not to let failure define me. Instead, I embraced it as part of my journey. Each misstep became a lesson, teaching me to pivot and adapt.
Then came the global health pandemic of 2020, a tidal wave that caught many unprepared. As the head of a large corporation’s people function, I stood at the helm, faced with unprecedented challenges. The waves of uncertainty crashed relentlessly as we adapted to remote work, reshuffled priorities, and redefined our engagement strategies. The enormity of the task often made me feel like I was merely a drop in the ocean, helpless against the forces at play. However, the spirit of Ganbatte compelled me to persist. Rather than succumbing to the tide, I rallied my team, fostering a collective resolve to adapt and innovate. Together, we embraced change and emerged stronger, finding creative solutions to unforeseen problems.
As I transitioned from corporate into coaching and consulting, I found myself navigating an ocean filled with established giants. In a landscape crowded with experienced coaches who seemingly had it all figured out, I often felt like a tiny fish in a vast sea. There were moments when I questioned my abilities and considered abandoning my dreams for the comfort of a regular job. Yet, just as the surfer learns to ride the waves rather than resist them, I leaned into the lessons of perseverance that “Ganbatte” embodies. I focused on honing my unique approach and delivering value in ways that set me apart, slowly carving my identity amidst the noise.
From these experiences, I learned valuable lessons that extend beyond the concept of Ganbatte. Here are a few that resonate deeply with me:
- Embrace Failure as a Teacher: Each failure is not a brick wall but a stepping stone. It provides valuable insights that inform your next move. Take the time to reflect, learn, and adapt.
- Collaboration Over Isolation: In moments of uncertainty, it’s essential to lean on your community. Sharing experiences and seeking support can create a powerful network that propels you forward.
- Stay True to Your Vision: Amidst competition and challenges, remember your unique value. Authenticity resonates more than conformity, and staying true to your vision will help you find your path in the chaos.
- Cultivate Resilience: Life will always present waves of change. Developing the ability to navigate these shifts with a positive attitude is crucial. Approach challenges with a growth mindset, viewing each obstacle as an opportunity for growth rather than an impassable barrier.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate progress, however small. Each step taken toward your goal is significant and helps build momentum for greater achievements.
- Pace Yourself: Just like surfers know how to ride the waves without exhausting themselves, it’s vital to maintain balance. Recognize that change is often a marathon, not a sprint, and be patient with your journey.
As you navigate your path, remember that every setback is a stepping stone and every wave holds the potential for growth. The ocean may be vast and unpredictable, but with tenacity and resilience, you can find your footing and ride the waves of change.
Whatever the situation may be that you are facing, there is something you can always be sure of: even the most gigantic waves always break up. We may suffer accidents or there may be times when there seems to be nothing but bad news, but whatever happens, we can always choose to fall forwards.
