I humbly say, I humbly say.

The phrase “moshi moshi,” often used when answering the phone, is a shortened form of “moushimasu, moushimasu” (“I speak, I speak”). It originated from telephone operators, who used to say it as a signal meaning “We’re about to begin speaking” when connecting a call.

Watching someone fall into hell

Auguste Rodin’s famous sculpture The Thinker depicts a man with his hand to his chin, leaning forward, lost in deep contemplation. Contrary to what the title suggests, however, it is said that he is actually gazing at people descending into hell. So he only looks like he’s thinking—but isn’t?

to encourage them to look around at other products

The main reason convenience stores place the drinks section at the back is to have customers walk through the store and see other products, encouraging them to buy more. By making people walk, they have more chances to pick up unplanned items, which can ultimately boost sales. Haven’t you fallen into this trap too?

Confirmation, Communication, and Reporting

Although it’s similar to “Hō-Ren-Sō” (report, inform, consult), “Kakurenbō” is a business term that puts stronger emphasis on first confirming things on your own. It mainly implies that subordinates work autonomously and then report to their superiors. Managers should aim to create a workplace environment where Kakurenbō can be practiced smoothly.

Blue Monday syndrome

Feeling depressed on Mondays is called the "Blue Monday Syndrome." Because of this, many people dislike going to work or school after a break and feel down. To avoid Blue Monday Syndrome, it’s important not to oversleep on days off and to avoid scheduling important tasks right after the break.

It depends on fatigue.

Depending on how your eyes are tired, you should either cool them or warm them. As a simple rule of thumb: if you feel fatigue on the surface of your eyes or around your eyes, cooling is best; if you feel pain deep in your eyes or a heavy, dull fatigue, warming them is more effective.

Cutting aluminum foil

When scissors become dull, you can improve their sharpness by stacking several sheets of aluminum foil and cutting through them, which helps smooth out small nicks on the blades. Sandpaper can damage the blades, and soaking them in water can cause rust. Cutting oiled cloth can make the motion smoother, but it doesn’t directly improve the sharpness itself.

Edo period

The word maji, which is commonly used especially among young people today, has actually been in use since the Edo period. Back then, it meant “seriously” or “in earnest.” It is said that even in kabuki plays presented during the Edo period, the word maji was used with this meaning.

concentration

During the rainy season, the humidity can make your body feel sluggish, and you might imagine your concentration breaking more easily. However, due to air pressure and the soothing sound of rain, your mind and body can actually relax, boosting your focus! Knowing this might help you get through the rainy season a little more comfortably.