By Christine Crosby
Do you know about the Kaizen way? It’s an ancient philosophy captured in the simple statement from the Tao Te Ching: “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” The beauty of kaizen is so simple:
- Using very small steps to improve a habit, a process, or product
- Using very small moments to inspire new products, inventions or improve relationships
As we live in the age of the Internet and media intense world we are constantly bombarded by so very many events that we get swept into the frenzy. The result is that we begin to feel powerless and not think we can make a difference. We forget the power we possess to shape our own world which in turn, shapes the world of others.
When I read this simple poem, Walking With Grandma, I was reminded of kaizen. Using kaizen, we can change our habits, like smoking, overeating, and unlock the secret to changing your life for the better.
I like walking with Grandma
Her steps are short like mine.
She doesn’t say, “Now hurry up”
She always takes her time.
I like to walk with Grandma
Her eyes see things like mine do
Wee pebbles bright
A funny cloud,
Half hidden drops of dew.
Most people have to hurry
They do not stop to see.
I’m glad that God Made Grandma
Unrushed and young like me!
According to Robert Maurer, Ph.D. author of One Small Step Can Change Your Life – The Kaizen Way, Instead of aggressively forcing yourself into a boot-camp mentality about change, give your mind permission to make the leaps on its own schedule, in its own time.
If you really want to change the world, as we know, it starts within ourselves. Remember, the small steps matter. Through small acts of kindness, and even small moments of compassion and curiosity, we can change ourselves and, eventually, humanity.
