Flourish - eMag - Mar 25 - Flipbook - Page 25
Bringing Omoiyari Into
Our Everyday Lives
You don’t need to be 昀氀uent in
Japanese culture to practise
Omoiyari. The beauty of this
concept is its universality and
adaptability. Here’s how you
can bring a little Omoiyari into
your daily routine:
1. Be Attentive: Pay closer attention to the people around you. Is
someone struggling with heavy bags? Offer to help. Is a
colleague looking overwhelmed? Ask if you can take something
off their plate.
2. Anticipate Needs: Think ahead about what others might
appreciate. A glass of water for a guest before they ask or a
“how’s your day going?” text can mean a lot.
3. Small Acts, Big Impact: Omoiyari doesn’t have to be grand.
Small gestures, like holding the door for someone or writing a
thank-you note, can brighten someone’s day.
4. Practise Active Listening: Truly listen to what people are
saying. Sometimes, they hint at what they need without
explicitly stating it.
5. Think Community: Beyond individual interactions, Omoiyari
can extend to community care. Volunteer, donate, or simply
spread awareness about causes that matter.
The Benefits of Omoiyari
Incorporating Omoiyari
into your life is as
rewarding for you as it is
for those around you.
Here’s why:
•
Stronger Relationships: Thoughtfulness builds trust and
deepens connections.
•
Increased Empathy: Practising Omoiyari makes you more
in tune with others, enhancing your emotional intelligence.
•
A Happier Environment: Small acts of kindness create a
positive ripple effect, spreading goodwill.
•
Personal Ful昀椀lment: Knowing you’ve made someone’s day
better is an unmatched source of joy.
So, the next time you’re about to rush through your day, pause
and think: how can I bring a little Omoiyari into this moment?
You might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes—
to others and to you!
