In Japan, there is a technique called the Kaizen technique or the one-minute principle that can help people overcome laziness and accomplish tasks effectively. This technique, widely used by leaders in Japanese businesses, emphasizes gradual and wise change.
The Kaizen technique was developed by Masaaki Imai. Instead of taking spontaneous actions, this technique suggests making small, consistent improvements over time. The key is to practice something for just one minute every day at the same time.
The effectiveness of the Kaizen technique lies in its simplicity and accessibility. Anyone can spare one minute a day to work on their goals. In Western culture, some may doubt the effectiveness of this approach, believing that success requires massive effort and time. However, pouring in too much effort and time can lead to exhaustion and burnout, which is not a sustainable approach to achieving goals.
When applying the Kaizen technique, it is important to break down big goals into smaller actionable steps. By doing so, you can focus on one minute of action each day, and this allows you to track your progress and stay on course.
Starting with just one minute of action is manageable for most people. Whether it’s doing push-ups, writing an article, or reading a book, beginning with one minute helps you see progress, feel a sense of accomplishment, and stay motivated. As you continue, one minute can gradually become five minutes, then 15 minutes, and even more.
The key is to start small and gradually increase your efforts. Many people fail because they try to tackle everything at once. By taking small steps and building on them, you increase the likelihood of success.
