This Is Truly Inspiring

[arfink]

[url="http://milesobrien.com/?p=3509"]http://milesobrien.com/?p=3509[/url]
An excerpt:

[quote]
The recurring theme here is of an extraordinarily passionate, proud, meticulous workforce that embraces a philosophy that is lost on many Americans. Here they take tremendous pride in everything they do – and for all the right reasons.

The Japanese call this [i]shokunin kihitsu.[/i] Literally translated: the craftsman’s spirit. But that doesn’t do it justice.

Those who ascribe to this way of life take pride in everything they do. In Japan, sushi chefs, fishermen, and carpenters all practice their craft— no matter how seemingly menial—with a driving sense of obligation to work to their utmost for the good of all.

And here is an essential point: [i]shokunins[/i] make something for the pure joy of it; carefully, beautifully, and to the best of their ability. It has nothing to do with fame or fortune. It is nothing short of an unyielding pursuit of perfection. At KSC, they have mastered a trade that demands it – and they have risen to meet the challenge time and again.
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If I could somehow harness that same spirit of [i]shokunin [/i]in my own work, I think I'd be much happier with the menial tasks I have to do every day.

Edited September 26, 2012 by arfink