6 Japanese techniques to overcome laziness and get moving again

             Written by: Dr Subita Alagh

2 July 2025

These 6 Japanese philosophies offer gentle, powerful ways to break free from inertia, without burning yourself out.

Feeling Stuck or Unmotivated Lately?

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When you connect with something meaningful—big or small, getting out of bed feels easier. Ikigai reminds you to chase what brings joy, purpose, and fulfillment.

Ikigai – The Reason You Wake Up

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You don’t need big leaps to move forward. Kaizen is all about small, steady steps that build momentum over time.

Kaizen – Progress, Not Pressure

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Set a timer for 25 minutes and give your task your full attention. Then pause, reset, and repeat. It’s rhythm, not hustle.

Pomodoro – Focus, Then Breathe

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Stop eating when you're 80% full. This practice helps prevent sluggishness and gives your body the lightness it needs to move.

Hara Hachi Bu – Eat to Fuel, Not to Fill

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Drop the pressure to know it all. Shoshin teaches you to show up with curiosity—like it’s your first time, every time.

Shoshin – A Beginner’s Mindset

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Don’t wait for the “perfect” plan or the “perfect” day. Wabi-sabi reminds us that beauty and momentum often lives in imperfection.

Wabi-Sabi – Done Is Better Than Perfect

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