In recent years, there has been a proliferation in the books that depict the quintessential spirit of a people. Maybe the Japanese were placed under the spotlight first since books on ikigai (life purpose) abound these days. Ikigai refers to the sweet convergence of your passion, your skill, your ability to use the passion to earn money and societal willingness to pay you for the skill.
But there are other books showcasing other cultures. Hygge refers to the Danes’ determination to not be consumed by the fast pace of life but to take time out to bond with loving family and friends. The Swedes are bound by a similar concept called lagom. The Swedes also have a time-honored tradition called fika; this involves them making time for one another to savour tea/coffee and snacks. Food and conversation - always a delightful combination.
Sometimes there is no need to do anything even. The Dutch swear by a concept called Niksen (which is the Dutch art of doing nothing). The Turks also have a similar concept, but alas, the exact word eludes my slippery brain at this point in time.
Other times, you are galvanised to take the bull by the horns. The Finnish has honed the art of sisu, which is an action-oriented mindset to have the courage to work towards what you want.
Some cultures are not yet represented in literature, but I suspect they are not obscure knowledge among us global citizens. Take for instance mai pen rai, the never mind mentality advocated by the Thais, who live life with a laugh and don’t sweat the small stuff.
Regardless of whether these culture words advocate an assertive or take-it-easy attitude towards life, they remind us to be more intentional in living our life. These culture words keep us focused on the grand scheme of things: quality relationships, self-actualisation at its best, sense of humour. They certainly don’t conjure images of people refreshing their app every few minutes and getting themselves stressed out over the market movements of their coins.
What culture do you come from and do you think it helps you cope with the fast evolving crypto world?
Originally posted on r/cryptocurrency
