Zen Word for Better Communication #35 不戯論 Fukeron

Refrain from unnecessary arguments and vain talk.

Pointless arguments and quarrels waste time and energy, rob us of inner peace, and often arise from comparing ourselves to others or seeking to satisfy our vanity.  At times, we lose sight of the essence of things and fall into mere wordplay.

Let us refrain from useless words that stir up mental agitation and instead devote ourselves to the sincere practice of engaging with others in good faith.

While foreign companies demand detailed NDAs, contract terms and penalty clauses, Japanese companies place greater importance on building trust before signing a contract, long-term relationships and personal rapport.  It’s not just about the logic; what matters is whether we can maintain a long-term relationship with this company.  – K.Kato