Srinagar, Aug. 30 -- In today's world, where endless distractions-from smartphones to streaming platforms-constantly tempt us away from meaningful work, laziness and procrastination feel almost unavoidable. Yet in Japan, a culture admired for its discipline and longevity, centuries-old practices provide powerful tools to fight inertia. These practices-Kaizen, Hara Hachi Bu, Nemawashi, Misogi, Shoshin, and Ikigai-go beyond mere productivity hacks. They are deeply rooted philosophies that balance discipline with well-being, teaching us how to stay active, engaged, and purposeful.

The Japanese word Kaizen literally means "change for the better." Unlike the Western obsession with drastic makeovers or ambitious New Year's resolutions, Kaizen ...