Carlos’ trip to Japan.
I recently came back from a fantastic 16-day trip to Japan. Not work, just play, but as usual, I couldn't help but look around and think about how I could apply approaches to my daily work habits. So, without diving into the deeper complex issues that no doubt exist, this is my superficial top-level Japan insights.
Great things happen when you take your shoes off. While it's a custom in Japan, I found it so enjoyable I've kept the custom alive in my office. Besides being clean, every time I took my shoes off, it was like the blood started circulating in my brain. Extensive research has pointed to a definitive foot-brain connection. So it kind of makes sense!
Work takeout: After a big idea? Start by taking your shoes off.
Variety matters. Ok, so this one I'll need to navigate gently. I love Japanese food... I really do. But there are only so many Katsu Curries you can eat before your body shuts up shop. Note to self, don't try and change it up by eating those seriously delicious Japanese pastries. To be fair, I had been warned of the potential for this problem, but I didn't want to pass up the opportunity of eating my favourite food in its home country.
Work takeout: Having a mixed diet of clients keeps ideas... regular.
Being nice makes everything better. It's easy to get angry in a city of almost 40 million people. You have to queue up for food if you haven't made a reservation, and chances are, you'll be standing on the train or bus – if you can get on one! But everywhere we went, everyone seemed ok with this, in fact, they seemed happy – polite, respectful and orderly. I'm sure they weren't, but it didn't show. Even when I wanted to get angry, I couldn't sum up the anger to make it happen.
Work takeout: Don't be an arsehole if you're having a bad day.
Good food and skiing can work together. Who would have thought? If you've ever been to Perisher, you know how bad the food can be in those massive food halls. Not to mention the exercise of trying to find a seat while doing laps around the food court in your ski boots balancing a tray stacked with plates of overcooked slop. Well, here's a scoop! Go to Japan and enjoy some of the best skiing in the world while dining on properly good Japanese cuisine.
Work take out: You don't have to accept compromise.
Don't forget to explore the side streets. So, what were the best parts of the trip? The unscripted parts. I love getting lost – it's a surefire way of discovering something new. My kid's have a term for it; "Dad's drifting again." Invariably, we always discovered a little gem down one of the side streets. Our best coffee was found down a side street, we had a to-die-for Ramen down a side street.
Work take out: Taking the time to explore different directions can present hidden gems.
Carlos Jonmundsson
Founder of Focus Creative