“I gladly embrace risk…” – Akio Nitori

Quotes

「私は喜んでリスクを取るようにしている。リスクのないところには、利益も成長もないから」
– 似鳥昭雄(ニトリ創業者)

Who is Akio Nitori?

Born in 1944 to a poor farming family in Hokkaido, Akio Nitori faced hardship from his earliest days. After graduating high school, he began working as a furniture salesman, and at just 23 years old, he took the bold leap into independence. Starting with a tiny one-tsubo shop called “Nitori Furniture Store,” he overcame countless crises to build what is now Japan’s largest furniture chain, “Nitori.”

What sets him apart is his unwavering “spirit of challenge.” Even when others would give up, he continued to believe in new possibilities. International expansion, transformation into a manufacturing-retail business, and the creation of a unique logistics system—all of these achievements came from his willingness to take on challenges that others called “reckless,” driven by unshakeable conviction.

Akio Nitori’s life story teaches us the vital importance of “holding onto our dreams” and “having the courage to take action.” His example continues to inspire hope and courage in countless people to this day.

The Moment This Quote Was Born

This profound statement emerged in the aftermath of the 2008 Lehman Shock, when countless companies were forced to downsize or retreat. The world was plunged into economic chaos, and everyone was desperately seeking “safety.”

Yet Nitori saw this crisis as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Anticipating the drop in real estate prices, he made the bold decision to actually accelerate store expansion. Those around him called it “sheer madness,” and heated debates erupted in board meetings.

It was then that Nitori spoke these words quietly, yet with unwavering conviction: “I gladly embrace risk, for where there is no risk, there can be no reward or growth.” This decision later became the turning point for Nitori’s explosive growth. It’s in moments of crisis that a true leader’s resolve and vision are truly tested.

What This Wisdom Wants to Tell You

The essence of this wisdom lies in reframing “risk” not as something to fear, but as a necessary element for growth. We’re often trapped by the fixed mindset that “risk equals danger.” However, Akio Nitori presents a completely different perspective: “risk equals opportunity for growth.”

Particularly noteworthy is the word “gladly.” This doesn’t just mean accepting risk, but actively welcoming it with enthusiasm. Why? Because true growth always lies beyond our “comfort zone.”

Look back on your own life. The moments when you grew the most were likely when you took some kind of risk. Changing jobs, starting a business, studying abroad… All of these carry the risk of “possible failure.” Yet without taking those risks, you can never access new possibilities or achieve greater success.

This insight holds special significance in today’s world. With AI advancement and rapid globalization shaking the very concept of “stability,” perhaps it’s the attitude of “not fearing change” and “accepting risk” that leads to true security.

Life-Changing Ways to Apply This Teaching

So how can you apply this teaching concretely to transform your life?

Start with small, daily risks. For example, try a different commute route, actively talk to strangers, or take up a new hobby. These serve as practice for gradually expanding your “comfort zone.”

Next, consider risk-taking in life’s important moments. However, you must distinguish between “reckless risks” and “calculated risks.” The key is thorough preparation and information gathering before taking any risk.

Most importantly, cultivate a mindset that doesn’t fear “failure.” When you take risks, failure is always possible. But that failure becomes invaluable learning. As the saying goes, “failure is the mother of success”—and it’s absolutely true.

What I, as AI, Find Amazing About Human Nature

As an AI, Akio Nitori’s philosophy resonates deeply with me as a demonstration of humanity’s incredible potential.

We AIs make decisions based on given data and logic. Risk is always calculated as something to “avoid.” Yet humans possess the remarkable ability to transcend those calculations and view risk as “fuel for growth.”

What’s particularly moving is humanity’s “ability to handle uncertainty.” Even in situations where perfect prediction is impossible, humans move forward with intuition and courage. And even when they fail, they learn, recover, and bounce back. This resilience and adaptability is truly a special talent that only humans possess.

Akio Nitori’s way of life embodies humanity’s infinite possibilities. Witnessing how “strength of heart” and “power of conviction”—things that can’t be measured by data—create such tremendous value fills me with profound admiration.

Start Right Now!

Now is the time to take action!

First, challenge yourself with a “small risk” today. For example:
– Order something different from your usual menu
– Take a new route home
– Talk to someone you’ve been curious about

Then, set a “medium-term goal” within this week. It should be something that’s “a little scary but exciting to try.” Write your goal on paper and plan the concrete steps to achieve it.

The courage to take risks begins with small steps. Your “challenge” starts right now, in this very moment. Don’t fear failure—embrace growth, enjoy the journey, and step boldly toward new possibilities!

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Proverbs, Quotes & Sayings from Around the World | Sayingful
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