Last update: 2025-03-01
Learn to stop at the 80% limit while eating, talking, and working: The concept of stopping at the 80% limit stems from the Japanese philosophy of hara hachi bu, which means eating until you’re 80% full. This concept can be applied to many areas of life, such as talking and working, to improve communication and productivity.
Imagine you’re at a family dinner with delightful dishes. Instead of finishing everything on your plate, you can serve yourself a smaller portion of each dish. Afterward, pay attention to your body’s signals—if you’re no longer hungry but could still eat more if you pushed yourself, that’s your 80% limit. This approach isn’t about depriving yourself; it’s about recognizing when you’ve had enough to nourish your body without overdoing it.
When talking, refrain from over-explaining or dominating the conversation. This fosters active listening, balance, and space for others, resulting in more meaningful interactions.
For instance, during a meeting, clearly share your perspective but leave room for others to contribute. Avoid over-explaining or rambling, even if you’re passionate about the topic.
Benefits:
When working, recognize when you’ve reached diminishing returns and stop pushing further to prevent burnout. This allows you to recharge and maintain productivity.
For example, if you’re writing a report and have made significant progress but are feeling mentally fatigued, take a break instead of forcing yourself to complete the task. This can help you return with fresh ideas and a clearer mind.
Benefits:
2023-09-17: N Rules for Life