If you travel on a train in Japan, you may encounter a conductor talking to himself. He is performing tasks while commenting aloud on each thing he’s doing. He is practicing shisa kanko, which you may also call a form of mindfulness. A study has shown that when asked to perform a simple task, workers typically make 2.38 mistakes per 100 actions. When using shisa kanko, this number reduced to just 0.38 percent—a massive 85 percent drop. The practice illustrates the benefits of focusing. Mindfulness is not so much about sitting in a lotus position with your eyes closed; it’s about moment-to-moment awareness.
The Japanese have a skill that’s now copied around the world
More of Today's Solutions
4 tips for everyday eco-friendly living
In the face of climate change, many people question the importance of individual actions in ensuring a sustainable future. While institutional change is necessary, ...
Read MoreCambodia honors the rat who cleared more landmines than anyone
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Decades after the conflicts that planted them, landmines remain one of the most persistent threats to civilian life ...
Read MoreSay goodbye to swampy feet: 6 effective ways to keep your feet dry this summer
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL STAFF Do you suffer from sweaty feet? Don't fear, you're not alone. Sweaty feet are a typical problem, particularly ...
Read MoreHelping young people of color navigate the music industry with Carnegie Hall&...
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In the iconic setting of Carnegie Hall, a remarkable initiative is taking shape, one that seeks to bridge ...
Read More
