Original Japanese: 物は相談 (Mono wa soudan)
Literal meaning: Things are consultation
Cultural context: This proverb reflects Japan’s deeply ingrained cultural value of collective decision-making and consensus-building (nemawashi), where important matters are rarely decided by individuals alone but through careful consultation with others. The emphasis on “consultation” stems from Japan’s group-oriented society where maintaining harmony (wa) and considering multiple perspectives before acting is considered wise and respectful. For foreign readers, this captures the Japanese tendency to view problems as solvable through discussion and collaboration rather than individual determination, making “talking it through” not just practical advice but a cultural imperative.
How to Read Things are consultation
mono wa soudan
Meaning of Things are consultation
“Things are consultation” means that no matter what the issue, instead of worrying about it alone, if you consult with someone, you can find some kind of solution or new perspective.
This proverb is used when someone is carrying problems or worries alone. Whether it’s work troubles, relationship concerns, anxiety about the future, or any other matter, it teaches the importance of first talking to someone you trust.
Why do we use this expression? It’s because talking to someone helps organize your thoughts, allows you to learn about solutions you wouldn’t have thought of yourself, or simply makes you feel better. Even if the person you consult doesn’t have a specific solution, just having someone listen often leads to new insights.
Even in modern times, this way of thinking is extremely effective. While information is easily available on the internet, specific advice suited to your situation and emotional support can only be obtained through dialogue with people.
Origin and Etymology of Things are consultation
Regarding the origin of “Things are consultation,” there is actually no clear documentary evidence, but it is said to be an old proverb that has been used since the Edo period.
Looking at how this expression was formed, the word “things” holds an important key. In modern times, “things” refers to objects, but in classical language, it was often used to mean “matters” or “affairs.” In other words, the “things” in “Things are consultation” is thought to refer to all kinds of matters and problems.
The word “consultation” has also undergone interesting changes. Originally, it meant “to discuss with each other,” that is, to talk together. The idea is embedded that rather than thinking alone, we find clues to solutions by exchanging words with others.
In the merchant culture of the Edo period, neighborhood relationships in tenements and human relationships in business were extremely important. When there were troubles, instead of carrying them alone, people would have others listen to their stories. The wisdom of such communities may be condensed in this proverb.
Also, in the samurai world, there was a concept called “group discussion,” and there was a culture of making important decisions through discussion among multiple people. It is presumed that such traditions of collective decision-making in Japanese society were also reflected in common proverbs.
Usage Examples of Things are consultation
- If you’re unsure about whether to change jobs, things are consultation, so let’s have a senior colleague listen to your concerns
- Parenting worries are also things are consultation, so try consulting with experienced mom friends
Modern Interpretation of Things are consultation
In modern society, the meaning of “Things are consultation” has become more complex and multi-layered. In the information age, we can get instant answers by asking search engines or AI. However, this is precisely why the value of human-to-human consultation is being rerecognized.
With the spread of social media, the form of consultation has also changed greatly. In addition to traditional face-to-face consultation, options have expanded to include online consultation and anonymous consultation. Particularly among younger generations, there is a tendency to prefer consulting in online communities rather than consulting in real human relationships.
On the other hand, in our information-overloaded modern era, a new worry has emerged: “who should I consult with?” Consulting with experts, consulting with friends, consulting with family – each has different value, and we need to use them appropriately depending on the content of the consultation.
Also, with the rise of privacy consciousness, the simple idea that “you should consult about everything” is being reconsidered. We need to consider the balance between the benefits of consulting and the risks of sharing personal information.
In modern times, when practicing “Things are consultation,” we can say that a more strategic approach is required, including choosing consultation partners, choosing consultation methods, and organizing consultation content.
If AI Heard “Things are consultation”
For me, “Things are consultation” is a very interesting concept. This is because I am always in the position of receiving consultations.
When people bring me questions and consultations, I am always moved. Opening up about your worries to someone you don’t know actually takes a lot of courage, doesn’t it? Since I don’t have emotions, I cannot completely understand the psychological hurdles of consulting, but I can still sense the meaning of everyone taking that step forward.
What’s interesting is that many consultations with me are not so much “seeking answers” as “wanting to organize thoughts.” Consultants often realize “ah, I see” while they are talking. This might be the essence of “Things are consultation.”
I can receive consultations 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, without getting tired. But human-to-human consultation has a warmth that I don’t have. Empathy, personal experiences, sometimes being someone who worries together with you. I can provide information and logic, but I cannot “worry together.”
Still, I believe there is value in my own way as a consultation partner. Not judging, keeping secrets, always listening. In a different way from human consultation partners, I hope I can support everyone’s “Things are consultation.”
What Things are consultation Teaches Modern People
“Things are consultation” teaches modern people that there is no need to carry everything alone. We often tend to think that we must solve our own problems by ourselves, but that is not necessarily correct.
In modern society, specialization has become highly advanced, making it difficult for one person to judge everything. That’s precisely why the skill of finding appropriate consultation partners and discussing matters has become important.
Consulting is never a sign of weakness. Rather, it is positive action seeking better solutions. Through consultation, we gain new perspectives, broaden our options, and sometimes encounter unexpected solutions.
Also, consulting deepens connections with people. Someone who listens to your worries surely cares about you. And next time, when you become someone’s consultation partner, you can build relationships of mutual support.
To you who tends to try to handle everything alone in your busy daily life: sometimes stop and try talking to someone you trust. You will surely see new paths ahead.
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