At the core of human behavior, actions driven by intrinsic motivation are far more valuable than those driven by external approval.
Japan, as a society built on a highly homogeneous culture, has developed unique communication styles. In many cases, shared assumptions reduce the need for direct explanation.
Subtlety as Strength in Japanese Communication
In business, titles, roles, and income levels are used as simple benchmarks. But in everyday interactions, the rules become more complex.
In Japan, excessive self-assertion is sometimes seen as weakness.
True strength often comes not from loud words, but from:
- The ability to remain calm without insisting on oneself
- The capacity to accept others with composure
- A refined sense of consideration
In this cultural context, boasting about income, status, or power often backfires. Instead of signaling confidence, it exposes insecurity.
The Trap of Approval-Seeking
When we feel an overwhelming need for recognition, it may be a sign that we are not doing what we truly want.
Why? Because when we are genuinely enjoying ourselves, there is no urge to show off. The experience is already complete in itself.
This does not mean that seeking approval is always wrong.
But when the desire becomes too strong, it is worth asking: Am I really pursuing what I want?
Interestingly, true learning often comes from failures we would rather hide. If we can even share such failures openly—whether in private conversations or on social media—it may actually show we are acting from a place of authenticity.
The Limits of Japanese Non-Assertion
However, this understated Japanese style does not always translate to a diverse world.
In multicultural contexts, failing to express oneself can also be seen as weakness.
Without assertion, it becomes difficult to bridge different values and build trust across cultures.
That said, when choosing luxury clothes or cars, it is still worth asking:
- Do I truly want this?
- Or do I simply want to show it off?
The same applies to chasing excessive income or elite academic credentials.
Choosing the Right Source of Joy
The emotional difference between the pure joy of achieving something for yourself and the shallow satisfaction of looking down on others by flaunting it is enormous.
Japan demonstrates that it is possible to live in a society where people do not need to constantly assert themselves.
If we can separate these two motivations—and consistently choose the former—our quality of life will rise dramatically.
Final Thoughts
The lesson from Japanese habits is not to reject recognition entirely, but to ask ourselves:
- Am I doing this for genuine joy, or just for approval?
True fulfillment comes when we act from intrinsic motivation, not from the need to be seen.
