Introduction: The Balance Between “Being Right” and “Being Happy” for a Joyful Life
In life, we often hear the importance of living the “right” way. Whether at school, in the workplace, or in relationships, we’re constantly told what is “right” and what should be done. However, Kobayashi Seikan challenges this notion, suggesting that focusing too much on being right can lead to unnecessary stress and an inability to enjoy life. Instead, he advocates for living a joyful life, where happiness and freedom are prioritized over rigid standards of rightness. So, how can we balance “being right” with “being happy” in our lives?
Kobayashi Seikan encourages us to shift our focus from being “right” to finding “fun.” By adopting this new perspective, we can live more freely and easily. In this post, we’ll explore Seikan’s teachings on how choosing fun over rightness can lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious life.
1. From “Being Right” to “Being Happy”: Why Letting Go of Justice Will Set You Free
Focusing on always being “right” often leads to stress and frustration. Kobayashi Seikan points out that insisting on what is right can create unnecessary conflict and tension in relationships. When you cling to a rigid sense of rightness, it becomes difficult to navigate life with ease and joy.
For example, if a boss or parent constantly emphasizes the “right” way of doing things and criticizes others, it can create a strained atmosphere. On the other hand, when a boss or parent chooses to be a “fun person,” others are more likely to follow their lead and feel at ease. The focus here is not on being right but on creating a positive, enjoyable atmosphere.
Kobayashi Seikan teaches that pursuing joy is far more productive and fulfilling than focusing solely on what’s “right.” When we shift our attention to what feels fun and brings us happiness, life becomes more enjoyable and the stress of constantly trying to be right fades away.
2. The Difference Between “Right People” and “Fun People”: How Shifting Focus Can Improve Your Relationships
Many people live their lives trying to be “right” in everything they do, but this mindset often leads to unnecessary conflict and dissatisfaction. When you focus solely on being right, you may unknowingly distance yourself from others. However, when you focus on living a fun life, not only do you relieve yourself of stress, but you also enhance your relationships with others.
In human relationships, we tend to listen to and respect those who bring joy into our lives. A boss who is always “right” may demand perfection, but their subordinates may feel burdened and less motivated. However, when a boss is someone who is fun and relatable, employees are more likely to listen and cooperate.
In the same way, in parenting, when parents are too strict or focused on being right, children may feel misunderstood or rebellious. But when parents focus on creating a joyful, loving environment, their children are more likely to listen, cooperate, and thrive.
Seikan emphasizes that people do not listen to those who always enforce what is “right”—they listen to those they enjoy being around. Whether in the workplace or at home, relationships are easier and more fulfilling when the focus is on fostering joy rather than stressing over what is right.
3. How Pursuing Joy Over Rightness Can Transform Your Life
Kobayashi Seikan’s idea of “being right” vs. “being happy” is not just about avoiding responsibility or ignoring what’s important. Instead, it’s about shifting your focus from rigid expectations to a mindset that values joy and ease. This change of focus can positively impact not only your relationships but also your mental and physical well-being.
For instance, in business, many companies aim to follow the “right” approach to profitability. However, this often leads to customer dissatisfaction. On the other hand, companies that focus on providing enjoyable experiences for their customers often see greater success. By making enjoyment a priority, these businesses cultivate positive relationships with their customers and create loyal followings.
Similarly, in sports, coaches who emphasize enjoyment over strict discipline often bring out the best in their teams. A coach who focuses on creating a positive, fun environment enables athletes to perform better and enjoy the game, leading to success beyond what rigid training can achieve.
In both business and sports, focusing on joy over rigid correctness can unlock hidden potential. This simple shift in mindset has the power to transform not only your performance but also your personal relationships.
4. Choosing a Fun Life: How It Benefits You and Those Around You
By following Kobayashi Seikan’s teachings, we can shift our focus from striving to be right to embracing a life full of fun and happiness. This simple adjustment can make our lives more enjoyable and our relationships more positive. When we stop focusing on being right and start prioritizing joy, we free ourselves from unnecessary stress and embrace a more fulfilling, balanced life.
This doesn’t mean abandoning responsibility or forgetting what is important. Instead, it means recognizing that enjoying life and creating positive relationships can lead to more success and personal satisfaction than a constant obsession with what’s “right.” Whether in work, family, or friendships, joy should be at the heart of everything we do.
Conclusion: Start Living a Fun Life Today and Unlock Greater Happiness
By shifting your focus from “being right” to “being happy,” you can drastically improve the quality of your life. Kobayashi Seikan’s approach is about finding joy in everyday moments, letting go of rigid expectations, and embracing a more relaxed, fulfilling existence. The next time you’re faced with a challenge or conflict, remember to ask yourself, “What will bring me joy?” By prioritizing fun, you’ll unlock new opportunities for personal growth and success.
Start applying these principles today, and you’ll find that life becomes much lighter and more enjoyable. In the end, it’s not about being right—it’s about finding the joy that makes life truly worth living.