– A conversation with Anne Crescini
Have you ever fully considered that the Japanese concept of “gaman” (putting up with things) has a positive and a negative side, depending on the situation?
For example, in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, we have to gaman as we’re putting up with not being able to do things that we want to do, like traveling overseas, going to concerts, and hugging friends.
This is a situation that we can’t control or change. We can only control or change our attitude toward it.
This is an opportunity for what I call “positive gaman” – when we accept a situation without complaining or being upset all the time and simply do the best we can.
Let’s take another example. Maybe you’re in a job that you’re not enjoying – perhaps because of the people or the working conditions or the content of the work.
But maybe you’re putting up with the situation because you’re not confident about changing jobs.
That’s what I consider “negative gaman” – you actually have a choice, but you’re choosing to stay miserable (and have a negative impact on those around you).
In Episode 79 of the Sasuga! Podcast, I continue my conversation with Anne Crescini and she reveals how she was putting up with an unpleasant situation for some time before she made the brave decision to make a change.
You’ll also hear:
- How Anne made a fool of herself on Japanese TV and what she learned from it
- How even native English speakers forget English words!
- How “hansei” – the Japanese concept of reflection – combined with curiosity is a great recipe for growth (and you can use that too!)
(If you missed the first part of our conversation, listen to Episode 78 here.)
Enjoy!
Watch the full interview on YouTube
Connect with Anne
Website
Blog
Anne’s Talk in TedxFukuoka
Get Anne’s Latest Book: 教えて! 宮本さん 日本人が無意識に使う日本語が不思議すぎる!
Links for you
Speak Like An Expert Online – Stop worrying about your English in online meetings and start communicating clearly and convincingly in this self-study course
12 Essential Phrases For Clear, Confident English Presentations – In Person and Online – Download this free guide for some useful phrases to make your English presentations – both in-person and online, run smoothly.
Sasuga! VIP Women’s Coaching – Get on the interest list now for the next program and be the first to know about the next online training opportunity for you (women only)
Sasuga! Tips For You newsletter– Get practical techniques, resources, and inspiration every Tuesday in English