Japanese motivation runs through relationships. You do not strive primarily for yourself—you strive because others have invested in you and will be affected by how you do. Your parents sacrificed for your education; your teachers gave you guidance; your seniors showed you the way; your company developed your skills.
This investment creates obligation—on—that must be honored through your effort. When you work hard, you repay those who helped you.
When you succeed, you bring honor to those relationships. When you fail, you shame not just yourself but those connected to you. This transforms motivation from personal desire into relational duty. You push harder than self-interest would suggest because you are not striving for yourself alone—you are honoring the web of relationships that made your efforts possible.
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