人生は静かではなく、大人になってからの不幸や災害は精神的なダメージを与える。友人や知人の言葉で傷ついた心を癒し、勇気を与えられることもある。先人の言葉を解釈すると教訓や啓発を得られる。勤勉や努力の重要性が強調される中で、一生健康を目指すことが重要だと述べられている。人生において、努力と全力を尽くすことの美しさや意義が語られ、モットーを持つことで困難を乗り越える勇気が生まれる。
Life is never “quiet”. Unlike when we were young, unfortunate events and disasters that happen as adults can sometimes cause significant mental damage. Even in such times, isn’t it part of life to stand tall and move forward? Words spoken by friends or casual acquaintances can heal a deeply wounded heart and give courage as well.
Furthermore, unraveling the words left by our predecessors can provide us with many teachings and enlightenments. With that in mind, the motto for the 5th edition is “Lifetime Health”.
Meaning of “Diligence”
Where does the origin of “Effort” come from?
If you want to give a speech with “Give it all you’ve got” as your motto
Finally
Meaning of “Diligence”
“Giving it your all” is explained in the “Shogakukan Digital Daijisen” as “Making an effort with all your might. Also, that state”. It symbolizes values and spirits that go beyond mere effort. For elderly people, this famous saying reminds them of the importance of chasing dreams and living life with passion even as they age.
It teaches us the importance of earnestly engaging in all activities such as work, hobbies, family, and self-realization. Especially to lead a fulfilling life after retirement, enthusiastically pursuing new hobbies and interests can revitalize life and elevate mental satisfaction.
Where does the origin of “Effort” come from?
Originally derived from “Isshou Kenmei”, meaning “devoting one’s whole life”. “Isshou” refers to a person’s exclusive territory given by the Emperor. “Kenben” means to protect something with one’s life. This word originates from the feudal samurai class’s territorial consciousness, symbolizing crucial land that could become a matter of life and death. Over time in the Edo period, the meaning of “protecting the land” faded, leaving behind the meaning of “doing something at all costs”. Additionally, it is believed that the pronunciation of “Isshou” as “Isshon” led to the interpretation meaning “dedicating one’s life” and gave birth to the word “effort”.
If you want to give a speech with “Give it all you’ve got” as your motto
When you give a speech with “Working hard” as your motto, it conveys the positive energy of those words and the ability to instill motivation to face all challenges in life positively. Living earnestly is not just about striving for success, it shows the beauty of completing a process and the belief that effort itself is valuable.
Life is unpredictable and full of challenges, but by embodying the spirit of “working hard”, one gains the confidence to overcome any challenge. Below are three examples of speeches with “Do your best” as the motto.
1: Speech example rediscovering the importance of effort
“I once challenged a difficult project with ‘Working hard’ as my motto. At that time, there were many challenges in front of me, and success seemed unlikely. However, every time I recalled this phrase, I persevered and worked hard every day. Several months later, the project was more successful than expected, and the team’s efforts were recognized. Understanding the true value of working hard.”
2: Speech example recounting days of giving it your all
“My grandmother’s motto in life was ‘Effort’. Her garden bloomed with beautiful flowers throughout the seasons, delighting everyone who visited. From my grandmother, I learned that by giving it my all in everything I do, I can move people’s hearts. Bringing joy to others. I keep my grandmother’s ‘Working hard’ attitude as my motto.”
3: Speech example of turning a hobby into a profession
“My high school teacher was a biology teacher, but I had a deep passion for photography. After retirement, I started taking nature photos with ‘Diligence’ as my motto. It started as just a hobby. However, his works gradually got recognized, and he started winning awards at international photography exhibitions. Their story embodies the passion of ‘Working hard’, no matter how old you are. It shows that it is possible to pursue a new career.”
Finally
The word “Hard work” is a powerful message that reminds older people at any stage of life of the importance of living with passion. Making this word your motto can make each day meaningful and give you the courage to face any difficulties positively.
“Hard work” isn’t just about working hard, it emphasizes facing yourself and the importance of enjoying life to the fullest. Keeping this word in mind, we can bravely face the daily challenges and live life to the fullest.
●Written by/Sayuri Takeda
A career consultant with a national qualification. Junior high and high school Japanese teacher, school librarian. While working as a teacher, she is also involved in promoting vocational education for children to live their lives in their own unique way. My hobbies are tennis and reading.
●Composition/Kyoto Media Line・