This blog post introduces a sample 3-minute speech you can use at a lecture event. Let’s explore how to convey your core message within a short timeframe.

Let’s build your own self-development portfolio

Hello, everyone!
In an era as fiercely competitive as today, mere effort often falls short of achieving success. While the quantity and quality of information once determined success or failure, we now live in an age where how you utilize that information and transform it into your own weapon is more crucial. Especially for working professionals, many strive for self-development to gain a competitive edge. If you’ve been studying diligently but haphazardly, relying solely on hard work, it’s time for a more strategic approach.
We often focus our studies on topics directly related to our company’s work when preparing for a job change or aiming to increase our value. However, there’s no guarantee that such efforts will necessarily provide tangible benefits to your career. In fact, if you focus your self-development too narrowly on work-related skills, you might feel limited in the long run. Even if something doesn’t seem immediately necessary, it’s important to take a long-term view and challenge yourself in diverse areas. Just as diversifying investments across multiple sectors reduces risk in stock trading, it’s advisable to expand your self-development in various directions rather than focusing solely on one area.
To achieve this, I suggest building a self-development portfolio that balances four key elements: ‘Business’, ‘Networking’, ‘Financial Management’, and ‘Personal Fulfillment’. By designing your self-development around these four pillars, you can build a more robust foundation for growth without leaning too heavily in any one direction.
First, cultivating competencies related to your current or desired future work is fundamental. If you need language proficiency scores, start studying languages; if a master’s degree is required, consider pursuing graduate school. Preparing for a specific certification exam is also a good approach. Such learning doesn’t just enhance your job skills; it can also be an opportunity to expand your potential. However, if you only repeat work-related studies, life can feel monotonous and you can easily become exhausted. This is because if all activities inside and outside the company revolve around work, it’s easy to lose life balance.
In such times, activities that involve connecting with people and expanding your network can be immensely helpful. Small gatherings over coffee, study groups in areas of interest, or community activities based on hobbies offer more opportunities than you might expect. Within these, you might receive unexpected business proposals or gain new ideas and inspiration. Beyond simple social connections, they can become a source of energy that revitalizes your life.
Next is preparing for financial management. The earlier you start financial management, the better. How to manage and grow your assets is a crucial issue for everyone. Even if results aren’t immediate, it’s important to develop an interest and prepare early. Many educational programs on various financial management topics like stocks, funds, and real estate auctions are available; actively utilize them. Accessible channels are diverse, including special lectures offered by financial institutions, courses held in local communities, and online classes. Reading related books to build a foundation of knowledge and establishing your own direction is also a good approach. While it may feel unfamiliar and complex at first, maintaining consistent interest and learning will help you see the bigger picture and gradually develop your own criteria.
Above all, emotional stability and self-satisfaction are paramount. Stress from social life is an unavoidable reality, but ultimately, you must find healthy ways to manage it yourself. Hobbies like cooking classes, floristry, folk art, or hanji paper crafts go beyond simple leisure activities; they significantly boost emotional stability and nurture creativity. Such hobbies can unexpectedly open new doors. They might lead to meeting new people or even opportunities for side gigs or starting a business. Self-development for personal satisfaction plays a vital role in enhancing quality of life and, above all, adds balance to daily routines.
We’ve entered an era where self-development should no longer be confined to specific fields. Building your own portfolio across multiple domains transcends the mere concept of ‘studying’; it’s akin to designing your own life. There’s no need to rush. Even if it’s slow, steadily chart your course at your own pace. Eventually, all that effort will return as a significant asset.
Right now, in this moment, in what direction and by what methods are you continuing your self-development? Simply pausing to reflect can make your future appear a little clearer. Starting today, begin filling out your own self-development portfolio, one piece at a time.

Wise Ways to Handle Children’s First Rebellious Phase

Hello.
When a child who was always glued to their mother suddenly starts acting independently, it’s natural for parents to feel flustered and confused. It’s easy to wonder whether this is defiance or simply an expression of their growing independence. Many parents struggle with how to understand and respond during this phase. Today, we’ll discuss how to accept your child’s first phase of defiance and navigate it more wisely.
A child’s first rebellious phase arrives earlier than expected, around 12 months of age, when they start walking on their own. Seeing their first steps fills parents with pride and joy, yet worry also takes hold. Even a momentary lapse in attention brings anxiety that the child might run off and get hurt. However, from this point on, it’s time to gradually prepare to let go, as the saying “a child in one’s arms” implies. Even if your child makes mistakes, give them the chance to try again and offer warm encouragement. Of course, sufficient safety measures must be in place around the home to prevent accidents. Through the process of falling and failing, children learn about the world and develop their independence.
The second rebellious phase, often called the “terrible twos,” is when children say “No!” to everything and act contrary to their parents. A defining characteristic of this phase is the child’s growing assertiveness. If parents react too sensitively or nitpick every word, scolding the child constantly, the child may become inhibited about expressing their thoughts. Instead, it’s crucial to view this as a positive sign that the child has grown enough to think and speak for themselves. If parents can accept this with a smile, thinking, “Oh, they’re saying things like this now,” the child will develop confidence and initiative within the parents’ calmness. During this period, it’s crucial to clearly communicate what is acceptable and what is not. Also, encourage the child to try doing everyday tasks like eating or getting dressed independently. If the child wants to, letting them try sleeping alone in their own room can be a good experience. These small attempts at independence accumulate, helping the child grow into a person with self-esteem.
Finally, the third rebellious phase is the ‘terrible twos’ period, where children frequently talk back and argue with their parents. While many parents find this stage the most challenging, it is also a natural developmental process where children express their thoughts and seek affirmation of their existence. Rather than automatically scolding them for talking back, it’s important to make an effort to understand why they said it and what feelings lie behind their words. If parents react with annoyance or displeasure, the child will gradually become hesitant to express their curiosity or emotions. This can ultimately have a negative impact on the development of intellectual curiosity and expressive abilities. Try to discern the sincerity and emotions behind the child’s words and respect them. Through these experiences, the child can develop a healthier sense of self and thinking skills.
Thus, a child’s rebellious phase should not be viewed merely as problematic behavior, but rather as part of the process of self-discovery and growing into an independent being. While it can sometimes be exhausting and challenging for parents, it is actually evidence that the child is developing well. Considering that these concerns stem from a place of loving your child, you, the parents reading this, understand this sentiment better than anyone. Therefore, we can watch our child’s growth more wisely and warmly.
To raise a child properly, parents must first understand their developmental stages and adopt an attitude of communicating and guiding them in ways appropriate to those stages. I hope today’s discussion offers some small help in your parenting journey. May our children grow up feeling deeply loved and with high self-esteem, always supported by their parents’ warm care and encouragement. Thank you.

Start Mastering Asset Management Today

Hello, everyone. Asset management is no longer the exclusive domain of corporations or experts. We have entered an era where everyone must manage their own assets. Please remember this crucial fact: how you manage your personal assets can alter not only the direction of your life but also your level of satisfaction and the weight of your happiness. Today, let’s explore together what individuals should start with to manage their assets well and how to grow assets through financial management.
To manage personal assets well, the first essential thing is a systematic financial mindset. While many people have organized their income and expenses on a monthly or yearly basis, to grasp the flow of assets more precisely, you need the habit of meticulously examining daily income and expenses. Of course, recording everything daily might feel cumbersome. In that case, start by getting into the habit of organizing your household accounts at least weekly. This small habit becomes the starting point for preventing leaky spending and naturally cultivating a sense of money flow.
In this sense, keeping a household ledger can be considered the most fundamental starting point for asset management. Nowadays, there are many household ledger apps available that can be easily used via PC or smartphone, allowing even beginners to approach it without much burden. Above all, the most important thing is ‘consistency’. Once you develop the habit of regularly reviewing your numbers, your perspective on money naturally shifts, and your entire attitude toward it changes. This transformation goes beyond mere saving and directly impacts your ability to grow your assets.
Another crucial point is letting go of vague fears about stocks or funds. While many people have profited from stock investments, stories of those who lost money are also common. Most failures stem from rushing in without sufficient information or fixating on short-term gains. However, nowadays, various financial products are being launched that offer the potential for returns while protecting a portion of the principal. While achieving large profits in the short term is difficult, these can serve as a means to steadily grow your assets from a long-term perspective.
I recommend starting small, without pressure, at first. As you gradually learn about the nature of investment products and market trends, you’ll develop your own investment intuition. Investing is often ‘fearful because of ignorance.’ Once you understand it, it often feels less risky than expected, and a stable path may even open up. The key is *not to jump in blindly, but to adopt an attitude of ‘learning while practicing.’
And one point you absolutely must not overlook: seeking expert help is also a wise strategy. Tax issues and information about financial products require specialized knowledge, making it difficult for investment beginners to handle everything alone. Especially with stocks or funds, where the market can fluctuate multiple times a day, simply referencing expert advice or strategic guidelines can be a huge help. Nowadays, there are many reliable asset management services and platforms available, so using them to set a direction that suits you can be an excellent starting point.
Asset management and financial planning are not about achieving dramatic results in the short term. Rather, it’s a long-term process that requires letting go of impatience and gradually changing small daily habits. It may feel daunting at first, but through the practice of keeping daily records, maintaining consistent interest in finance, and seeking appropriate help when needed, positive changes will undoubtedly emerge. The crucial thing is ‘starting now.’ No matter how small the action, consistent accumulation will eventually translate into significant assets.
Why not start today by keeping a household budget? Becoming comfortable with numbers, developing an interest in finance, and asking for help when needed—this entire process is the first step toward ‘wise asset management.’ Asset management is no longer a distant concept. Begin right now, in your daily life.

Qualities Needed to Become a Successful CEO

Hello, everyone.
You here today are likely new CEOs who have just taken your first steps into a new market. It’s perfectly natural to feel fear and worry facing the countless variables and challenges ahead. Some of you may be constantly asking yourselves, ‘Can I really become a good CEO?’ Truthfully, I’ve wrestled with the same doubts, and I still ask myself that question today.
During these moments of reflection, I’ve compiled what I believe are the essential qualities required to become a CEO who successfully leads a company. Of course, perspectives may vary, but I hope this article offers some direction to those of you walking the same path.
Above all, it is crucial to become a ‘true expert’ in your field. Exercising leadership without deep knowledge and solid experience is difficult. A superficial understanding will never allow you to properly lead an organization. A leader must identify problems before anyone else, set the direction, and earn trust within that framework. Furthermore, an organization cannot be run alone. Understanding the value of talented individuals and possessing the ability to help them maximize their potential are also essential qualities for a CEO. Ultimately, the company’s future hinges on its people. Recognizing outstanding individuals and creating a culture where they can grow together is what a true leader must do.
Another crucial attitude is refusing to rest on current successes or achievements. One must not dwell on today’s accomplishments but always strive toward a better tomorrow. They must anticipate the changes the next era will bring and be prepared to respond to those changes with agility. A CEO must constantly ponder the future and be someone who relentlessly asks questions to seize opportunities first. Simultaneously, they must sometimes learn to ‘let go’. Rather than greedily grasping at every opportunity, they need the decisiveness to get closer to what truly matters through selection and focus. They must know when to boldly let go of ventures with slim chances or low efficiency, as precisely such decisions become the foundation for propelling the company to the next level of growth.
And there is one element they must never forget: the moral integrity and trustworthiness expected of a CEO. No matter how outstanding the results achieved, if basic ethics are not upheld in the process, it is the entire organization that ultimately collapses. Trust with employees, customers, and investors isn’t built overnight, and once broken, it’s extremely difficult to restore. I believe the true skill a CEO must possess is the strength to uphold this ‘trust’ to the very end. Even if it takes time, a leader must steadily build trust like an asset; that is the core of sustainable management.
The figure I’m particularly interested in and watching closely these days is Steve Jobs. He’s the name that comes to mind first when talking about Apple, and he’s also the person remembered until the very end. He was once ousted from the company he founded, but he returned and revitalized Apple through innovative products like the iMac and iPod. It’s no exaggeration to say that the identity of the ‘Apple’ brand we know today is largely the result of his efforts. Jobs, originally a computer hardware engineer, possessed not only an exceptional understanding and feel for technology but also an uncanny ability to recognize outstanding talent. He never settled for the status quo, always living with a thirst for the future. While he sometimes displayed eccentric traits, he was a man who never knew the meaning of ‘giving up’.
After returning to Apple, he redefined the company’s image by launching the iMac. Soon after, he introduced the iPod, which shook up the MP3 market and rewrote the legend once built by Sony’s Walkman. He proved his qualifications as CEO by deeply engaging with his field, thinking intensely, and taking on challenges. The leadership Steve Jobs demonstrated still resonates deeply with all of us living in this era today, and the legacy he left behind extends beyond mere products to encompass a management philosophy.
I, too, find myself reflecting frequently on my own role as a CEO these days. The dilemma of whether I should strive harder to become the best talent or challenge myself to pursue what I truly dream of remains an ongoing struggle. I know full well that neither path is easy. But I believe there are undoubtedly people out there, somewhere in the world, wrestling with these same intense questions and quietly walking their own paths. And I think what ultimately distinguishes them from me comes down to one thing: how much deeper they think, and how much more intensely they focus and strive.
The qualities of a CEO I mentioned today—expertise, the ability to lead talent, foresight, choice and focus, and integrity and trust—may feel abstract right now. But as time passes, you will come to understand firsthand how profoundly important these qualities are. Success never arrives suddenly one day. It is built through daily small actions and constant reflection, accumulating until it creates a significant transformation.
I sincerely hope each of you grows into a truly successful CEO in your respective roles. Thank you for reading this lengthy post.

Why We Read Self-Help Books, and Their Effects

Hello, everyone.
When you visit bookstores these days, one striking change stands out: the self-help section is steadily expanding and prominently displayed in the most visible spots. I often hear that interest and demand for self-help books surged dramatically after the IMF foreign exchange crisis. This makes me think that the more unstable society becomes, the greater the desire to cultivate personal capabilities.
However, concerns about the popularity of self-help books are also significant. Compared to humanities books, novels, or philosophy, critics point out that self-help books have limitations in cultivating readers’ critical thinking, insight, writing skills, or vocabulary. Moreover, the characteristic ‘ease of reading’ and ‘immediate stimulation’ of self-help books often lead readers to gradually lose interest in other genres. While most self-help books are composed of short paragraphs and concise sentences, making them easy to read without burden, there is also concern that this very quality can lead to relatively shallow reading experiences and diminished resonance.
I, too, often notice that self-help books consistently rank high in my reading volume alongside economics and management books when organizing my bookshelf. While I certainly agree with some criticisms and limitations of self-help books, I still have my reasons for consistently reading this genre.
Above all, the greatest effect self-help books provide is their power to ‘reaffirm the fundamentals’. Have you ever revisited your elementary school “Good Living” textbook or your middle/high school ‘Ethics’ textbook as an adult? The content inside feels mostly too familiar, perhaps even too obvious. Phrases like “Be considerate of your neighbors,” “Always keep your promises,” and “Value your time” are prime examples. Self-help books are much the same. They often repeat advice like “You should do this” or “Avoid that kind of behavior.” While they might feel fresh upon first reading, after going through several books, it can start to feel like “old news.”
But the truly important point lies elsewhere. The reality is, far fewer people actually remember and live by these obvious truths than you might think. In our busy lives, we often forget basic principles or attitudes. We know them, but we often fail to put them into practice. This is where self-help books come in. They remind us of the fundamentals we’ve overlooked and provide an opportunity to check in with our current selves. I believe this value extends far beyond simply reading a single book.
Furthermore, through self-help books, we can acquire practical tips and techniques applicable to real life. For instance, many books cover diverse topics like time management methods, effective note-taking habits, strategies to enhance focus, ways to improve sleep quality, and approaches to maintaining relationships. Some books contain insights based on decades of research and experience, while others share practical know-how gained through the author’s own numerous trials and errors. Thanks to this, we gain the opportunity to indirectly improve various aspects of our lives through a single book. Sometimes, we even experience seeing tools or behaviors we casually overlooked in daily life from a new perspective.
Of course, self-help books don’t affect everyone the same way. Each reader’s expectations and takeaways are inevitably different. Even the same book can resonate completely differently depending on when, where, and in what circumstances it is read. Some books leave a message that stays with you deeply, while others can change the direction of your life with just a single sentence.
But one thing is clear: simply ‘reading’ a self-help book is never enough. No matter how valuable the content you learn from a book, true self-development won’t happen unless you put it into practice in your actual life. In fact, the frustration you feel when you don’t act on what you’ve read can be even greater. That’s why I believe the real start of self-development isn’t stopping at reading the book, but cultivating the habit of translating the knowledge gained into actual actions and repeating them.
I gently encourage you, dear reader, to try this too. Reading a self-help book is good, but try putting into practice just one thing you learned from it each day. Even if it’s a small, seemingly insignificant action, if you consistently build upon it, positive changes will undoubtedly come into your life. Remember, change begins not with grand resolutions, but with small, steady actions.

Stimulate Your Subconscious Mind with Image Training

Hello, everyone. Today, I’d like to discuss the relationship between the subconscious mind and successful actions, focusing on the topic of ‘image training’. In the sports world, cases proving the effectiveness of image training are consistently reported. For example, it’s widely known that a skier who faced a major crisis due to injury or a pitcher who lost confidence due to a severe slump recovered their skills and returned to the field in a short time through image training. This goes beyond simple mental training, demonstrating tangible contributions to actual performance improvement and serving as a prime example of the impact of imagery training.
In fact, sports psychologist Dr. R.A. Vandel conducted an intriguing experiment with archery athletes. Instead of shooting arrows at an actual archery range for a set time each day, he had the athletes repeatedly imagine shooting arrows while mentally focusing on the target. The results showed that the athletes who trained solely through imagery achieved nearly identical performance levels to those who practiced physically. This was a significant experiment supporting the fact that imagery training can produce effects similar to actual physical training, rather than being merely a mental simulation. Similarly, there was an experiment measuring the effectiveness of free throw practice by dividing a Canadian university basketball team into three groups. Group 1 practiced actual free throws for 30 minutes daily over 20 days. Group 2 received no training. Group 3 practiced repeatedly visualizing themselves successfully making free throws in their minds for the same duration. The results were highly intriguing. Group 1 saw a 24% improvement in free throw success rate. Group 2, which did not train, showed no change. Group 3, which only performed imagery training, achieved a remarkable 23% improvement. The fact that this result was achieved without actual practice demonstrates how substantial the effects of imagery training can be.
This effect is now gaining attention beyond sports in various fields. It’s effective not only in areas requiring repetitive and delicate skills like playing musical instruments, Go, or chess, but also increasingly in business domains such as sales, presentations, and interview preparation. Furthermore, more and more ordinary people are practicing it in their daily lives because our ‘subconscious mind’ reacts sensitively to images. The brain perceives images we conjure in our minds as actual experiences. The more these images are repeated, the deeper they become imprinted in the subconscious, influencing subsequent actions and judgments. Ultimately, simply repeatedly visualizing a successful image causes our subconscious to accept that image as a feasible reality, increasing the likelihood of it translating into actual results.
Therefore, from now on, before achieving any goal, cultivate the habit of vividly picturing yourself successfully acting in your mind. This isn’t merely a visualization technique to boost your mood; it’s a practical method for training your brain and subconscious mind. Scenes repeatedly imagined in your mind will feel familiar in real situations and naturally lead to confident actions. Success doesn’t depend solely on effort or luck. Clearly imagining your future and repeatedly imprinting that image. That very image training can become a powerful tool for creating the results we desire.
Start practicing image training today. Begin by vividly picturing your desired future self in your mind for just five minutes a day. This small habit can become an amazing turning point that positively shifts the direction of your life. Thank you.

Self-improvement starting with a journal: A small but sure first step toward change

Hello, everyone. Today, I’d like to share one self-improvement method I practice. It’s a very simple approach that requires no special tools or significant time investment: self-improvement through journaling. While it’s a familiar method most people have tried, consistent practice creates greater change than you might expect.
Many of you will agree that the work environment in our country is far from easy. Especially when compared to some Nordic countries, often called ‘earthly utopias,’ the difference feels even more stark. The reality is that most office workers lack both the energy and time to take on anything new after finishing their daily work. Days often become a mere repetition of ‘home-work-home-work,’ and what passes for leisure is often just watching a drama at home or zoning out. Yet, quitting your job isn’t an option right now, and letting precious time slip away like this feels too wasteful. Ultimately, what matters is the resolve to let go of momentary comfort and prepare for a better tomorrow. It might sound a bit cliché, but I believe all change and growth start with this simple resolve.
Even if it’s not a grand goal like “success,” we all live each year with at least one resolution, thinking “This time for sure,” or “This year, really.” Whether it’s exercise, a certification, reading, or anything else. Yet, we’ve all experienced that moment when the year ends and we haven’t achieved that goal. Ultimately, the difference boils down to one thing: whether you move now or stay still. This simple choice changes today and tomorrow, and eventually, it can even alter the course of your life. Still, we know it’s never easy to push ourselves into action. We want to be more lenient with ourselves than anyone else, and we easily succumb to the temptation to lie down, rest, or do nothing at all.
That’s why the method I want to introduce today is self-improvement through ‘journaling’. It’s a very small and simple action, but it’s a powerful tool that helps organize your thoughts and keeps you from losing direction. The book ‘How the Lazy Become Rich’ advises that if you want something, you should expose yourself to information related to it every day, even if it’s just one or two things. The point is that it’s crucial to continuously feed your brain stimuli related to your goal and maintain that momentum. It’s fine to read a book, watch a related video, or even write down your goal repeatedly in a notebook like you used to. The important thing is to consciously develop the habit of exposing yourself daily to ‘the direction I want to go’.
I, too, use a daily journal to record self-improvement content. At the end of each day, I jot down points for reflection, organize information or memorable quotes from fields I’m interested in, and briefly note tasks or action plans. It might seem insignificant at first, but these accumulated short entries eventually build a conviction that “I’m making progress little by little, without even realizing it.” Even when you feel no visible progress, a single line from yesterday’s journal sets today’s direction and prepares you for tomorrow.
If you haven’t yet set a self-improvement plan, or if you have a plan but struggle to follow through, start by writing in a journal. It doesn’t need to be a beautiful sentence or a long piece. “I didn’t read a book today either. Tomorrow, I’ll read at least 10 pages.” That’s a great start. What matters is the habit of having a brief daily conversation with yourself, visually confirming your goals, and moving steadily in that direction. Those small, incremental changes, consistently built up, ultimately lead to significant achievements. Journaling is precisely the act of planting the seeds of that change.
Starting today, why not take out your diary or notebook and begin your own small but sure first step toward self-improvement, at your own pace? Just three minutes a day, a single short sentence is enough. No one knows how much this small practice today will transform your life this time next year. The start may be small, but change will definitely come.

Work Life and Self-Improvement – Change That Starts with Time Management

Hello, everyone.
Recently, while reading the book 『The Daily Textbook of Manager Kim, Who Does His Job Well』, I found a section I deeply resonated with. It was about ‘the art of time management’. If you’ve ever worked in an office, you’ll understand how quickly the day flies by. You rush to work in the morning, start your tasks, and before you know it, it’s lunchtime. Then, just as you catch your breath, quitting time is suddenly upon you.
We spend about one-third of our 24-hour day at work. This time isn’t just for tasks; it’s a piece of our daily, recurring life. Therefore, how we use time determines our quality of life and can even become the foundation for creating new opportunities. Ultimately, self-development for office workers starts with ‘time management’. The same 24 hours are given to everyone. Yet some strategically use that time to achieve results quickly, while others let it slip away without even starting. This difference makes us realize that time management is the core competitive edge for office workers.
One sentence from the book particularly struck me: “Those who want to take control of their daily routine should seek efficient self-management methods rather than just worrying about time management.” This statement lingered in my mind for a long time. No matter how much we recognize the importance of time, it ultimately means nothing if it doesn’t translate into action. Therefore, we must establish the habit of clearly defining priorities within our daily tasks and connecting them to small, concrete actions. Once this habit takes root, each small action builds confidence, and that confidence creates a virtuous cycle leading to better results. In this way, time management isn’t merely a skill for managing schedules; it’s the core of self-management—understanding and refining oneself while proactively designing daily life.
So, what are some practical methods for time management? Several principles introduced in the book were particularly striking. First, there’s the principle of ‘executing within 72 hours.’ Whenever a plan or resolution arises, it must be put into action within 72 hours. The probability of execution drops sharply as time passes. Ultimately, what matters isn’t ‘when to do it,’ but the courage to start right now. Second, letting go of perfectionism is also necessary. Canadian psychologist Gordon Platt states that perfectionism actually limits our capabilities. The desire to do things perfectly leads to procrastination, ultimately preventing us from starting anything at all. We need to accept that we are on an ‘unfinished journey’ toward a completed result and cultivate an attitude of accepting ourselves as we are in the present. Third, praise and reward yourself. The hardest part of self-development is maintaining consistency. A small compliment like ‘Good job today’ may seem simple but holds surprising power. The habit of rewarding even small achievements and giving yourself positive energy becomes the driving force for sustained self-development.
Ultimately, time management isn’t merely about efficiently organizing schedules. It’s a holistic self-management process: understanding yourself, steering the flow of daily life, and laying the groundwork for growth. When discussing self-improvement, we often aim for grand goals, but real change begins with how we use each day. This simple cycle—planning, acting, and reflecting on today—accumulates to build a better tomorrow. Right now, how are you spending your time? Today’s small actions lead to tomorrow’s big changes.
Thank you for listening.

How can I succeed in stocks?

Hello, everyone. If you’re interested in personal finance, you’ve probably wondered at least once: ‘How can I succeed in stocks?’ Everyone dreams of striking it rich overnight. So we buy lottery tickets, and when we hear someone’s investment success story, our ears naturally perk up. Stories like “My friend’s dad made a fortune in stocks” or “An acquaintance became a millionaire investing in funds” are common around us. But when we actually try to follow that path, we often feel overwhelmed about where to start and wonder if we can really do it too.
Yet, no matter the type of investment, there is no single path that can be declared the definitive answer. It’s akin to the question, “How should one live well?” – a question to which no one can provide a precise answer. Stock investing is no different. The approach varies depending on each individual’s circumstances and disposition, and the paths to success are equally diverse. Due to the nature of my work, I meet many different people. Among them are those who have made significant profits through stocks, and others who have maintained their own philosophy and principles while trading over a long period. Talking with them, I notice a common thread: everyone has a different perspective on the market and a different approach, each backed by their own reasons and logic.
Of course, there are exceptions. So-called speculative investors, often referred to as ‘market manipulators,’ take a completely different approach from ordinary individual investors. They operate based on their own strategies, capital, and information, which is fundamentally different from what we commonly call ‘investing.’ Therefore, attempting to directly emulate such cases is extremely risky. Many people often ask, “How can I become good at stocks?” It’s impossible to say, “Do this and you’ll succeed without fail.” However, if the question is, “How should I approach it to reduce the probability of failure?” or “What attitude and preparation are desirable?”, I can offer some direction.
Based on insights gained through my experience and conversations with various investors, I previously compiled some common elements into an article posted on ‘Open Encyclopedia’. In this article, building on that content, I want to discuss the fundamental mindset and preparation we should have before investing in stocks. Ultimately, the most important things in investing are knowledge and strategy. To win a battle, you must understand its essence, know your opponent, and simultaneously know yourself accurately. As the saying goes, ‘Know your enemy and know yourself, and you will never be defeated in a hundred battles.’ You need to properly understand the product called stocks, clearly establish your own investment style and strategy, and above all, have the strength to consistently stick to that strategy. And remember, the real important battle is ultimately not against the market, but against ‘yourself’.
Conversely, jumping into the market blindly without any preparation makes the likelihood of suffering losses very high. While it’s said that “you learn about stocks through real-world experience,” no matter how important experience is, experience gained without foundational knowledge can lead to distorted learning. The market is constantly changing. Without a solid foundation, responding flexibly to these changes is practically impossible. That’s why I always emphasize this: “The fundamentals are the most important.”
If you’re just starting out in stock investing, don’t rush. Build your foundation step by step. Mastering basic concepts, understanding your investment temperament, and establishing your own principles are essential steps. While generating profits is important, above all, you must become an investor with unwavering standards and a solid center. Only then can you avoid being swayed by short-term fluctuations and expect stable, long-term results.
While this article may not be the perfect solution, I hope it serves as a clue for you to approach the world of stocks more healthily and to contemplate the direction you should take. The first step is the most important. Slowly, but without wavering, begin your own investment journey. I sincerely cheer you on in your successful investment journey. Thank you.

Rethinking the Right Approach to Child-Rearing: The Love Spanking

Hello.
Our children, so precious we wouldn’t even blink if they were in our eyes. Yet, many parents will agree that raising them is never easy. These days, books on child-rearing abound, and various parenting lectures are actively held. This reflects the common desire among all parents: ‘I want to be a good parent’ and ‘I want to raise my child well’. This desire is utterly natural and justified; it is a precious sentiment we all hold.
However, to raise a child properly, parents must first know and practice the ‘right educational methods’. Love alone is not enough. Effective parenting is only possible when accompanied by clear standards and understanding of the direction and methods needed to guide the child. Sadly, surprisingly many parents overlook even this fundamental truth. These days, it’s common to see parents repeatedly praising their child with “You’re so cute” or “You’re doing great” no matter what the child does, and there seems to be a growing reluctance to point out or correct a child’s mistakes. Facing this reality weighs heavily on my heart and makes me rethink education in our society.
Today, I wish to discuss the concept of ‘the rod of love’. Recently, I often hear that corporal punishment has completely disappeared from schools. Now that teachers’ use of corporal punishment is legally prohibited, how do parents feel about this change? I view this situation with deep regret. I cannot shake the concern that the disappearance of corporal punishment has weakened teachers’ authority and even blurred the meaning of ‘true education’. Of course, I am not suggesting corporal punishment is an absolutely necessary educational method. However, if corporal punishment is part of discipline rooted in ‘love,’ I believe a certain level of firmness is essential in raising children.
Nowadays, it’s difficult to expect teachers to fulfill that role. This makes the role of parents even more crucial. With the responsibility and authority to guide children properly now fully transferred to the home, it is time for parents to stand at the center of education. Raising a child inevitably leads everyone to struggle at least once between subjective feelings and objective judgment. Even when our child has clearly done wrong, is it truly right to cover up and shield them from the consequences? Or is guiding them to face their mistakes and recognize responsibility the true expression of love? Even if it brings short-term pain, considering the impact it will have when the child becomes an adult, we must make the wiser choice.
Not ‘simple punishment,’ but ‘love’s rod’ stemming from a heart that genuinely cherishes the child plays a crucial role in helping them grow into responsible, considerate adults with sound values. We hope our children grow not into people who think only of themselves, but into individuals who care for others and live together harmoniously. Isn’t that truly the image of a child we as parents desire? Children learn through correct standards and actions from a young age. Only when parents clearly establish these standards and guide their children with consistent attitudes can sound character and selfhood be formed.
I hope today’s discussion provides an opportunity to reflect anew on child-rearing. A parent’s warm attention and proper guidance are the greatest forces enabling a child to grow into a person who feels loved and possesses a healthy self. Children learn more from their parents’ attitudes than their words, and this learning becomes the standard for living throughout their lives.
Thank you for reading to the end.
I sincerely hope we all become wiser and more thoughtful parents for our beloved children.