The Japanese adage “七転び八起き” (Nanakorobi Yaoki) translates to “Fall seven times, stand up eight.” A distinguish term that we might want to use a number of times.

It beautifully encapsulates the essence of resilience and the relentless human spirit. This phrase teaches that no matter how many times we encounter setbacks or failures, our true strength lies in our ability to rise again and persevere.

In this detailed discussion, we will delve into the profound significance of Nanakorobi Yaoki and its implications for mindfulness and resilience. We will also explore various practical applications.

Understanding Nanakorobi Yaoki

Nanakorobi Yaoki highlights the importance of perseverance and the refusal to give up, regardless of the number of times we fall. It reflects a core value in Japanese culture that emphasizes enduring hardships with grace and continuously striving for improvement. This adage is not just about resilience but also about maintaining a positive attitude and learning from each setback, one setback at a time.

Significance of Nanakorobi Yaoki on Mindfulness

1. Embracing the Present Moment

Mindfulness is about being fully present and engaged in the current moment without judgment. Nanakorobi Yaoki encourages us to focus on the present, acknowledging our setbacks and using them as stepping stones to move forward. Each fall and rise is an opportunity to practice mindfulness, paying attention to our thoughts, emotions, and actions.

• Example: When faced with a professional setback, instead of dwelling on the past, a mindful approach would involve acknowledging the emotions, reflecting on the lessons learned, and focusing on the next steps.

2. Acceptance and Non-Judgment

Mindfulness involves accepting experiences without judgment. Nanakorobi Yaoki teaches us to accept failures and setbacks as a natural part of life. Viewing each fall as a learning opportunity rather than a personal failure fosters a non-judgmental attitude toward ourselves and our experiences. Because failures and setbacks are natural part of the process as well.

• Example: An artist who faces rejection from a gallery can practice mindfulness by accepting the outcome without self-criticism, reflecting on constructive feedback, and continuing to create art with renewed passion. Because Art is a form of self-expression which people must undergo in their lives.

3. Cultivating Patience and Compassion

Mindfulness nurtures patience and self-compassion. Nanakorobi Yaoki reminds us that resilience requires patience and the ability to be kind to ourselves during tough times. It encourages treating ourselves with the same compassion we would offer a friend in need.

• Example: A student who struggles with a difficult subject can practice self-compassion by acknowledging their efforts, seeking help, and giving themselves time to understand the material without undue pressure. It is okay to learn things bit by bit. Everyone should be able to learn things on their own at their own pace.

4. Mindful Action and Reflection

Nanakorobi Yaoki encourages mindful action and reflection. After each fall, it is crucial to reflect on what led to the setback and take mindful actions to rise again. This reflective practice helps us learn from our experiences and make conscious, informed decisions moving forward. It is almost similar to learning from our own mistakes.

• Example: A business owner facing financial difficulties can reflect on the reasons behind the setback, learn from various past mistakes, and taking deliberate steps to improve their business strategy.

Significance of Nanakorobi Yaoki on Resilience

1. Building Inner Strength

Resilience is the ability to adapt and recover from adversity. Nanakorobi Yaoki builds inner strength by encouraging us to face challenges head-on and develop the mental fortitude to keep going despite difficulties.

• Example: A person recovering from a serious illness can draw strength from Nanakorobi Yaoki by focusing on small daily improvements, maintaining a positive outlook, and celebrating each step toward recovery. It could be seemingly difficult, but we all need one step at a time to move forward in life.

2. Developing a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. Nanakorobi Yaoki fosters a growth mindset by emphasizing that each fall is a steppingstone to success. This perspective helps us view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.

• Example: A professional facing career setbacks can adopt a growth mindset by seeking feedback, learning new skills, and continuously striving for improvement, understanding that each setback is part of the journey toward mastery.

3. Fostering Adaptability

Resilience requires adaptability, which is the ability to adjust to new circumstances and find alternative paths to achieve goals. Nanakorobi Yaoki teaches us to be flexible and open to change, understanding that persistence sometimes involves adapting our strategies. One needn’t have to entirely change their strategies though. Mere adapting is good enough to sustain.

• Example: A company facing market changes can practice adaptability by re-evaluating its business model, exploring new markets, and innovating its products or services to meet evolving demands. Practicing adaptability would ensure that the company can withstand with resilience on a longer run.

4. Strengthening Emotional Resilience

Emotional resilience is the ability to manage stress and remain positive during difficult times. Nanakorobi Yaoki strengthens emotional resilience by promoting a positive attitude and the belief that we can overcome any challenge by continually rising after each fall.

• Example: A person experiencing personal loss can build emotional resilience by seeking support, practicing self-care, and finding ways to honor and remember their loved one while moving forward with life. They can still manage their lives while going through various unbearable pains in life.

5. Creating a Supportive Environment

Resilience is often bolstered by a strong support network. Nanakorobi Yaoki encourages us to seek and offer support during tough times. Sharing our experiences and learning from others who have faced similar challenges can provide the encouragement and motivation needed to keep going.

• Example: Joining a support group for individuals facing similar challenges, such as addiction recovery or grief, can create a sense of community and shared resilience. That would create a sense of recovery as well, amongst those individuals.

Any Practical Applications of Nanakorobi Yaoki

1. Personal Development
   • Setting Realistic Goals: Breaking down large goals into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrating each milestone, no matter how small, to maintain motivation and build resilience.
   • Continuous Learning: Embracing lifelong learning. Seeking opportunities to acquire new skills and knowledge, viewing each challenge as a learning experience.
2. Professional Growth
   • Embracing Challenges: Taking on challenging projects at work as opportunities to grow and demonstrate resilience. Learning from setbacks and using them to improve.
   • Networking and Mentorship: Building a professional network and seek mentors who can offer guidance, support, and insights based on their own experiences.
3. Health and Wellness
   • Physical Resilience: Developing a regular exercise routine to build physical strength and endurance. Incorporating activities like deep breathing or meditation to enhance the mental and emotional resilience of the individuals.
   • Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Practicing healthy coping mechanisms for stress, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies that bring joy such as painting, reading and various others.
4. Community Involvement
   • Volunteering: Getting involved in community service or volunteer work. Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and strengthen personal resilience.
   • Support Groups: Joining or forming support groups where individuals can share experiences, offer encouragement, and build collective resilience.

A Lifeline in the form of a Story: Nanakorobi Yaoki in Action

The Journey of Aiko

Aiko was a dedicated and passionate nurse who loved her job at a bustling city hospital. She was known for her compassionate care and tireless work ethic. However, the stress and emotional toll of her job began to wear on her, and she started experiencing burnout. Despite her dedication, Aiko found herself struggling to maintain her usual high standards, and the quality of her work began to suffer.

The First Fall

One particularly challenging day, Aiko made a mistake while administering medication, which could have been grave, but it was a minor mistake. Although the error was quickly corrected and no harm came to the patient, Aiko was devastated. She felt she had failed not only the patient but also herself and her colleagues. The incident shook her confidence, and she began to question her ability to continue in her profession. That incident shook her entire core.

Finding Strength in Nanakorobi Yaoki

Determined not to let this setback define her, Aiko remembered the adage Nanakorobi Yaoki. She took some time off to reflect and recharge. During this period, she practiced mindfulness meditation to manage her stress and regain her focus. Her staff members supported her thoroughly in this journey towards regaining the mental strength once again. She also sought support from her colleagues and mentors, who reminded her of her strengths and achievements.

Rising Again

With renewed determination, Aiko returned to work. She took deliberate steps to improve her skills and prevent future mistakes. She attended additional training sessions, implemented new organizational strategies, and made a conscious effort to manage her workload more effectively. Each small improvement bolstered her confidence and resilience. Still, she wasn’t completely over the mistake, but she did rectify a lot of her behavioral traits as well, to ensure that mistakes do not happen again.

Embracing Challenges and Growth

Over time, Aiko embraced the challenges of her job with a new perspective. She viewed each difficult situation as an opportunity to learn and grow. Her experiences taught her the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. By prioritizing her well-being, Aiko was able to provide even better care for her patients.

Inspiring Others

Aiko’s journey of resilience and perseverance inspired her colleagues. She started sharing her story and the principle of Nanakorobi Yaoki with other nurses and staff members facing similar challenges. Her willingness to be vulnerable and open about her struggles created a supportive and empathetic work environment. Together, they fostered a culture of resilience and continuous improvement.

Her story- Nanakorobi Yaoki

Aiko’s story exemplifies the power of Nanakorobi Yaoki. Her ability to rise after each fall not only strengthened her own resilience but also created a positive impact on those around her. She learned that setbacks are not failures but opportunities for growth and that resilience is built through mindful reflection, continuous learning, and the support of a strong community.

What can we say-

“七転び八起き” (Nanakorobi Yaoki) is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience and the human capacity to rise after each fall. By embracing this adage, we cultivate a mindset that values perseverance, adaptability, and continuous growth. Its principles are deeply intertwined with mindfulness, encouraging us to live in the present moment, accept setbacks with grace, and take deliberate actions to rise again. We just cannot defeat ourselves. That should be our main motto.

Through practical applications in personal development, professional growth, health and wellness, and community involvement, Nanakorobi Yaoki teaches us to face life’s challenges with unwavering determination. It is a timeless lesson that inspires us to keep moving forward, no matter how many times we stumble, and to view each fall as an opportunity to strengthen our resilience and deepen our mindfulness.