Nanakorobi Yaoki: The Art of Rising After Every Fall
Life is full of ups and downs, and in Japan, there’s a phrase that captures the spirit of perseverance: Nanakorobi Yaoki (七転び八起き). It literally means “fall down seven times, stand up eight,” and reflects the idea that no matter how many times life knocks you down, you keep getting back up. Similar to the English saying, “You can’t lose if you don’t give up,” it’s all about resilience and never letting failure be the end of your story.
Symbolism Behind the Phrase
The beauty of Nanakorobi Yaoki lies in its simplicity. Falling seven times represents the inevitable setbacks we face in life, but the focus is on the next step: standing up. It’s not about being perfect or never failing; it’s about how we respond to challenges. This philosophy has deep roots in Japanese culture and can be seen in everyday life, from childhood lessons to traditional practices.
Nanakorobi Yaoki in Popular Culture: Naruto, One Piece, and More
If you’re a fan of anime, you’ve probably already encountered Nanakorobi Yaoki without realizing it. Take Naruto for example—he’s constantly facing overwhelming odds but refuses to give up, no matter how many times he’s beaten down. His journey isn’t just about physical strength; it’s about persistence and heart.
Luffy from One Piece is another great example. He’s always jumping headfirst into dangerous situations and often gets knocked around, but he’s never out for long. No matter how many times he falls, he’s back on his feet, charging ahead toward his dream. These characters resonate because they remind us that resilience isn’t about never failing—it’s about never staying down.
Nanakorobi Yaoki in Everyday Life
Outside of anime, this mindset is something we can relate to in our own lives. Whether it’s bouncing back from a personal setback, learning from a mistake, or pushing through a tough day, the spirit of Nanakorobi Yaoki is about finding the strength to keep going. It doesn’t have to be dramatic—it’s the small moments of determination that count.
Why It Matters
At the end of the day, Nanakorobi Yaoki is a reminder that life’s challenges are part of the journey, and it’s how we respond that defines us. Whether you’re inspired by anime heroes like Naruto and Luffy or simply trying to get through your own struggles, the key is to keep standing up—one more time than you fall.
That’s why the Daruma doll is often used as a symbol of this mindset. The Daruma is designed to right itself when tipped over, representing the idea of always getting back up after being knocked down. In Japan, people often use Daruma dolls when setting goals, coloring in one eye when the goal is set and the other when it’s achieved—another reminder of resilience and persistence.
What does Nanakorobi Yaoki mean to you?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!