In Japan, proper action requires proper preparation. This is not merely tactical preference but something close to moral obligation. The person who acts without adequate preparation has failed before they begin.
The concept of junbi (preparation) pervades Japanese life—before meetings, events, seasons, examinations, and undertakings of any significance, appropriate preparation is expected. Asking “Have you done junbi?” implies that junbi is expected and that failing to prepare is a notable deficiency.
This creates front-loaded planning: invest heavily in preparation to prevent problems rather than responding to them. The well-prepared person has already accomplished something important before the substantive work begins.
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