Why Japanese People Struggle to be First Penguins

The term "First Penguin" is a metaphorical expression referring to pioneers or leaders who take on new challenges without fearing risks. This term comes from penguin behavior. When a group of penguins gathers at the edge of the ice, the first penguin to jump into the water takes on the risk of potential predators in the sea. This "First Penguin" symbolizes the courage that encourages other penguins to follow.

There are several reasons why Japanese people may find it difficult to become "First Penguins." These are general trends and do not apply to all Japanese people, but cultural and social factors are considered to have a significant influence.

Collectivism
Emphasis on social harmony: In Japanese culture, group harmony and unity are highly valued. Since individual actions can affect the entire group, new challenges or taking risks are often seen as potentially disrupting harmony with others.
Pressure to conform: There is strong pressure to conform and take the same actions as others, leading to a tendency to avoid acting on unique ideas or taking risks.

Fear of Failure
Harsh evaluation of failure: In Japanese society, failure is often viewed very negatively, and the social evaluation and penalties for failing can feel severe. This leads to risk-averse behavior.
Culture of saving face and shame: Avoiding personal disgrace or shame is highly important, resulting in a tendency to avoid challenges that might lead to failure.

Education System
Uniform education: The Japanese education system is standardized, emphasizing adherence to rules and standards over creativity and independent thinking. This can erode individuals' willingness to take risks over the long term.
Impact of the examination system: With intense competition in high school and university entrance exams, there is a tendency to make safe choices to avoid the risk of failure.

Workplace Culture
Lifetime employment system: The traditional Japanese lifetime employment system emphasizes stability and security, offering little incentive to take risks and challenge new things.
Vertical organizational structure: The vertical organizational structure and strict hierarchical relationships make it difficult to propose new ideas, and there is a strong expectation to adhere to existing rules and procedures.

Societal Values
Seniority-based values: The deep-rooted values of seniority based on age and experience make it difficult for younger generations to receive support when taking on new challenges.
Tradition and conservatism: Strong traditional and conservative values emphasize maintaining the status quo over taking on new challenges.

These factors combined can make it feel difficult for Japanese people to become "First Penguins." However, with globalization and technological advancement, these tendencies are gradually changing, and more Japanese people are taking on new challenges.

Kenichi Uchikura
President / CEO
Pacific Software Publishing, Inc.
ken.uchikura＠pspinc.com
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