Finding optimism when life’s

problems feel impossible

I feel like we should recognize it: Life is hard. Soaring living costs,
climate change, and the lasting societal and economical impacts of
Covid-19. Many face unique financial, social, and political challenges,
on top of the everyday challenges and work we face in life.

But while it’s easy to blame our struggles on that which is out of our
control, providing momentary comfort, this is not helpful over the long
term.

Instead, if you are struggling, let me offer a perspective that may

provide comfort, while also empowering you with the confidence to
help you find optimism and peace, and ultimately, solutions.

(And don’t worry, I’m not going to tell you to just “be more positive”)

What Japan learned from centuries of natural disasters

First, let’s start with a bit of Japanese history, to understand a common
cultural perspective towards personal responsibility.

Historically, Japanese society faced a lot of challenges, simply because

they faced a lot of natural disasters. It is geographically high-risk for
earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and typhoons, and because
Finding optimism when life’s
problems feel impossible
of its mountainous terrain, agriculture was also difficult. Many things
felt out of one’s control.

But instead of growing pessimistic and frustrated with these harsh

conditions, Japanese culture learned to develop a unique perspective
towards struggle that isn’t your own fault, and to value finding
acceptance in that truth.
Finding optimism when life’s
problems feel impossible
Finding optimism when life’s
problems feel impossible
Your problems aren’t your fault, but we can still take
responsibility for them
This perspective of acceptance is often referred to as “ukeire”.

Ukeire means that you don’t need to see the bright side of everything,
but first, try finding acceptance in it. For a moment, allow the situation
to be as it is, and relax in that peace.