Work-Life in Japan After the Earthquake- An Interview

Joanna Park is a work-life consultant and the author of a new book on the need for globalization and diversity in Japan. She has been my client for over seven years designing flexible work options for Japan. Here is her interview:





1. Tell me how the lives of you, your family and friends have changed since the eqrthquake.





We became much more aware of the power of earthquakes and tsunamis, although earthquakes have been common in Japan. We realize that we have no control over natural disasters and we just need to accept them. We also have started to think abut our priorities more seriously and how to use our time better to live more fruitfull while we are alive. We appreciate life more.





2. Has anything changed in the workplace--such as more open dialogue, compassion, flexibility, gratefulness, etc.





I think Japanese workplace has changed quite a bit with more compassion, appreciation and caring. Since we will be lacking massive electricity in the summer, companies are planning to introduce different types of flexible work arrangements, such a telework, summertime, and longer summer vacations that they have never thought of trying if this hadn't happened. It is expected that workers will have more time in the evening for personal activities which in turn could change not only the lifestyle but also the personal values of each individual.





3. How are young people reacting to all the changes since the earthquake?





They appreciate and care for family more. They also became more interested in volunteer work and contributing to others. More and more young workers take volunteer work vacation when their company offers, conduct charity events, help fund raising and many more.





4. What do you foresee in the future of Japan--individual lives and work lives?





The disaster has really impacted Japan in so many ways. It is very hard to foresee the future, but I truly believe that we will be seeing a lot of changes in the society, companies and people here in a positive way.





5. Can you see any upsides from the recent events?





People appreciate simple things and ordinary life more and realize the importance of relationships. Companies became more understanding of employees' personal lives and also it has forced companies to think about ways of working flexibly.





I think it has become a great "chance" for Japanese to change. Japanese dislike and have been avoiding change but the events have given Japanese a sense of emergency and a good reason to change.

The Upside of Mindfulness

I was in my car and on my way to discuss mindfulness to a group of unempoyed professionals when I started thinking about new points to add to the presentation. Ten minutes later I realized I had driven past my stop. This is a perfect example of not being mindful!

Mindfulness is an elusive and often misunderstood word. Mindfulness is simply being in the present moment. It requires that you discipline the mind and practice.

Why should you be mindful? When your life goes south, being mindful can help you get on track again. Mindfulness requires that you move away from busy behaviour. This is a problem for many individuals who feel they need to be productive all day. When you lost a job or have other losses in your life (money, home, partner), the tendency is to keep busy.

The practice of being mindful can lead to opportunitiies not yet uncovered. When you quiet the mind and are in the present, you are more able to see things clerly. When the mind is open you are allowing creative thought to take place.

Consider taking time out in small increments; even five to ten minutes a day. Small change over time can make a big impact. Your life might be different if you invested more time to developing a clear focus through mindfulness.

See our book, Upside: How to Zig When Life Zags, www.upsidethebook.com for more information.