Culture Japan Smart Doll – Courage (semi-real)

Because it takes courage to be who you are in a society that wants you to be otherwise.—

Originating from the Edo period, there is a saying in Japan that goes, “Deru kugi wa utareru” (出る杭は打たれる), meaning “the nail that sticks out gets hammered down.”

The “nail” refers to folk who “stick out” by choosing to be “different” – and because of this, they should expect to be hammered flat (so that they don’t stand out) by those who choose the comfort of conformity.

As hunter-gatherers started to live in groups, conforming to social norms was a survival advantage. Being different entailed a risk of being shunned from a group, which could have led to a lower chance of survival.

However, in today’s society, I beg to argue that being the same as others will decrease your chance of survival.

“Survival” is not just about staying alive for as long as possible – it’s about living your life the way *you* want – and not by society’s expectations.

It takes courage to be who you are in a society that wants you to be otherwise. But if you choose conformity, then there is a fitting proverb for you by Kenshiro of Fist of the North Star, which goes “Omae wa mou shindeiru” (おまえはもう死んでる), meaning “You’re already dead.”

Stay Courageous.