Travel has a way of broadening our horizons and perspectives.
Before 2020, I would take my family on trips to big US cities each year.
We loved exploring NY, Chicago, Philly, DC, New Orleans and San Diego as a family.
Several months ago a friend of mine told me about all the international adventures he has taken with his kids.
I loved hearing his stories and the memories he made with his children.
My wife Chris and I decided to do something big this summer.
We chose Japan.
Here are some of the lessons I learned from our trip to this incredible country. The Art of Respect
One of the first things that struck me in Japan was the profound sense of respect that permeates every aspect of daily life.
Whether it's the deep bows of greeting, the quiet and orderly queues, or the meticulous attention to detail in service, respect is a cornerstone of Japanese culture.
This respect extends not only to others but also to oneself, which manifests in the way people present themselves.
The taxi drivers wore coats and ties in 99 degree weather! In the crazy world we live in today, it's easy to overlook the importance of respect.
The Beauty of Orderliness
Japan is synonymous with orderliness.
From the precisely timed public transportation system to the well-maintained parks and gardens, everything seems to function with remarkable efficiency.
This orderliness is not merely about cleanliness but reflects a deeper societal value of taking responsibility for one's environment and actions. Witnessing this level of order made me reflect on the importance of structure and organization in our lives.
It highlighted how a well-ordered environment can reduce stress, increase productivity, and create a more pleasant living experience.
Implementing even a fraction of this discipline in our daily routines can lead to significant improvements in our quality of life. Cleanliness as a Virtue
Strolling through the streets of Tokyo or Kyoto, one can't help but notice how impeccably clean everything is.
There are few trash cans in public spaces, yet litter is virtually nonexistent.
This is not due to an army of street cleaners but rather the ingrained habit of cleanliness among the people.
Everyone takes responsibility for their own waste, ensuring that public spaces remain pristine. This practice underscored the importance of personal responsibility in maintaining a clean and healthy environment.
A Sense of Safety
Another striking aspect of Japan is the pervasive sense of safety.
Whether in bustling urban centers or tranquil rural areas, there is an underlying feeling of security.
This is not merely a result of overbearing policing but a reflection of a society built on trust and mutual respect. Feeling safe allows people to live more freely and openly, fostering a more connected and supportive community.
This lesson reinforced my belief in the importance of building trust within our own communities, be it in our neighborhoods or workplace.
Takeaway: As I return to Atlanta and my daily routine, I am going to try and incorporate these ideas around orderliness into my professional life that is sometimes very chaotic.
Here are some pictures from our trip.
This golden temple is literally covered in gold. I learned that it was once a vacation home for a wealthy family centuries ago. For a 'gold bug' like myself it is aspirational!
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