Respect for people
The idea of “not disturbing others” is sometimes taken to extremes in Japan — it can feel like you’ve done something wrong anyway. I take something else from this: be considerate of others, but not at the expense of yourself.
A love for stationery ✏️📒
I write a lot by hand, draw, and love paper. There’s probably no other place with such a selection of stationery as Japan. This is where my soul truly rejoices.
Quality as a principle
What I do should be done with quality. Perfection is unattainable, but it’s something to strive for. Don’t do things “just to get them done.” And stay humble, even when something works out. Listen to feedback with an open heart.
Communication with clients and the art of service
I constantly learn this from the Japanese. If you’ve been to Japan, you know how high the level of service is there — attentive, calm, and unobtrusive. It often feels like your needs are understood even before you voice them.
The ability to appreciate a beautiful moment ☕️🍂
Meetings with friends, good food, the beauty of nature. Those memories that can warm you later, even in the coldest winters.
This isn't a list of rules. Rather, it's a reminder that we can live a little more mindfully, notice, and learn from each other.
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