“I’m Jealous”

These words that we use without giving it any second thought - how are they really affecting those around you? And how do we take responsibility for our words? 

One of my colleagues, who wasn’t the best at doing English presentations, had asked me to prepare some documents in English a while back at work. 

The deadline was close, so I quickly translated the Japanese version into English. Afterward, they thanked me and casually added: “I’m jealous” (that you can do this in English).

I was a bit taken aback. No judgment against this person whatsoever, but I wondered why my body responded that way to that phrase.

I am nowhere near perfect, of course, but there were many years of blood, sweat, and tears to get to where I am today. 

So then I felt that all my hard work was just summed up into one phrase: “I’m jealous.”

Thinking of this further, I thought about how I would respond if I were in the other person’s shoes. What genuine words of appreciation would I use?

Maybe I could tell them that I’ll try my best to do it myself next time, and take a little moment to ask what kind of effort they’ve poured into their work up until now.

In turn, that can lead to my own improvement and growth.

The words that we often casually or mindlessly say can really have an impact on the recipient.

I know that if we were all a bit more conscious of it, it will also lead to each of us being able to take a little more responsibility for ourselves.

We can also be conscious of the situation or the timing of when words are expressed, and in doing so, we can improve our overall quality of communication with others. 

One word can create change. It really has that kind of power, so that’s why I find this to be so important.

It’s the last week of September, Japan is headed to its beautiful fall season.

As the last summer adventure, I went on a day trip to the ocean at my friend’s suggestion.

Sharing the photo from that day after feeling rejuvenated by nature.

Wishing you a week full of smiles!