In Japan, there are numerous beloved quotes, including those from historical figures, founders of now globally renowned companies, and even lines from manga. Today, we’d like to introduce some Japanese quotes that are particularly comforting to read when facing failure or obstacles in life. We hope you encounter quotes that have a positive impact on your life.
“My greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising every time I fall.”
By Soichiro Honda, founder of Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
The founder of the globally renowned automotive manufacturer Honda. He is famous for his unique management philosophy and life philosophy. Some people love his way of thinking so much that they continue to ride Honda vehicles.
“I didn’t grow by winning all the time; I grew stronger from losing.”
By Saori Yoshida, former wrestler
She is a former female wrestler who holds records such as three consecutive Olympic victories, 16 consecutive victories in world tournaments, and a personal winning streak of 206 matches. Such is her dominance that she is affectionately known among the Japanese people as the “Strongest Woman among Primates.”
“Admitting failure honestly. Not forgetting the feeling of ‘thank you.’ Through such actions, people build trust with each other.”
By Shigeta Saito, Japanese psychiatrist
He is a psychiatrist and essayist. His father, Mokichi Saito, was a renowned poet and psychiatrist. He left behind numerous books on life infused with humor.
“For example, if you were to cast your eyes down to your feet and notice a sharply defined, dark shadow stretching out, you might realize that you are being illuminated by a bright light from behind. Looking up is not the only way to seek light.” (From “A Drop Of Water In The Mighty River,” 1998, published by Gentosha)
By Hiroyuki Itsuki, author and essayist
He is an author and essayist. After the end of the war, he was left stranded in the battlefield and, after several failed attempts, escaped from internment camps with his father and young siblings.
“In your twenties, what you should do is either win or lose. The worst thing is to neither win nor lose.”
By Nobuyuki Fukumoto, a manga artist
He is a manga artist well-known for manga series such as “Kaiji” and “Akagi,” which are based on the theme of gambling. His depictions of psychological mind games between individuals and the portrayal of extreme psychological states are highly popular.
“It’s not embarrassing to stumble as a human being! What’s embarrassing is not getting back up again!”
From Volume 136, Chapter 3 of the manga “Kochira Katsushika-ku Kameari Kōen-mae Hashutsujo (KochiKame: Tokyo Beat Cops)” written and illustrated by Osamu Akimoto
The words spoken by the protagonist police officer when he scolded the woman who had gone astray.
“The experience of ‘having lost’ will someday become a valuable asset for you.”
From Volume 31 of the manga “SLAM DUNK” written and illustrated by Takehiko Inoue
The words spoken by the coach to the players after the powerhouse high school, which had never tasted defeat, lost to a high school team challenging the national tournament for the first time.
“You will stumble many times in the future. But each time, you also possess the strength to stand back up.”
From Volume 5 of the manga “Doraemon Plus” written and illustrated by Fujiko F. Fujio
The words spoken by the Nobita who came from 45 years in the future to the present Nobita just before leaving (to return to the future).
Did you find your favorite quotes to live by? If any quote in this article has moved your heart, you must be someone who has experienced at least one challenge. Be proud of that and keep challenging yourself. We will continue to challenge ourselves as well! Keep growing with Team Japan Dictionary!
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