“Just start with…” – Taro Okamoto

Who Was Taro Okamoto?

Known as an artist and philosopher, Taro Okamoto was a magnificent force who breathed new life into post-war Japan through his unconventional lifestyle and revolutionary artistic expression. Caught in the turbulence of World War II during his studies in Paris, he endured tremendous hardships yet never lost his burning passion for art.

Symbolized by his famous declaration “Art is an explosion!”, Okamoto continuously pursued free expression, refusing to be bound by convention or established concepts. His way of living truly embodied this wisdom of “just start with anything”—a testament to fearless action.

His works, epitomized by the Tower of the Sun, continue to stir people’s hearts even today. This enduring impact exists because he always lived in the “now,” never feared failure, and charged straight ahead on the path he believed in. From his passionate way of life, we can learn the magnificent power of living authentically and with unwavering determination.

The Moment This Quote Was Born

These words emerged when Okamoto was approached by young artists seeking guidance. He witnessed countless talented individuals paralyzed by questions like “How can I create great work?” and “What’s the path to success?”—stuck in endless contemplation without taking action.

In that pivotal moment, reflecting on his own journey, Okamoto spoke this insight with absolute conviction rising from the depths of his soul. This wasn’t mere advice—it was a fundamental truth he had discovered through living life to its fullest.

Seeing people frozen by fear of failure and the pursuit of perfection, Okamoto poured his entire spirit and passion into this teaching. These powerful words continue to resonate strongly in our hearts today.

His eyes saw the infinite possibilities sleeping within these young souls. To unleash that potential, he knew they didn’t need complex theories or lengthy preparation periods. They needed only the courage to take that first step forward—this principle became his unwavering belief.

What This Message Wants to Tell You

The essence of this philosophy lies in revealing the transformative “power of action” in life. We often try to create perfect plans, waiting until every detail is prepared. Yet that “perfect moment” may never actually arrive.

The phrase “anything” carries within it liberation from the limiting beliefs and preconceptions that bind us. The very thought that “it must be this way” might be what’s actually narrowing our possibilities.

“Just start” represents simple action that holds the power to dramatically transform your life. Through action, we discover things invisible from the sidelines. Through experience, we gain wisdom that no amount of thinking can provide.

This guidance becomes especially crucial in our modern world, where information overload strengthens our tendency to “overthink.” In an age where a single smartphone grants access to global knowledge, that very convenience might paradoxically become the source of our hesitation.

In your own life, you surely have moments when you think “I’d like to try this, but…” yet can’t take that first step. In those moments, remember this truth. Rather than seeking perfection, starting with one small step becomes the foundation for tremendous change.

Life-Changing Ways to Practice This Wisdom

To implement this teaching, begin with “habitualizing action.” Even just five minutes daily makes a difference. Create a list of “things you want to try,” then choose the smallest, most approachable item from that collection.

The key lies in not demanding immediate results. For instance, when starting a new hobby, you don’t need to excel from day one. Simply cherish the joy found in the action itself.

When thoughts like “What if I fail?” cross your mind, recognize these as growth opportunities. Instead, reframe failure as a “learning experience” and embrace it with positivity.

Daily small challenges will gradually build tremendous confidence, opening new possibilities you never imagined. This simple act of “just starting” might bring unexpected and wonderful transformations to your life.

What I, as AI, Find Beautiful About Humanity

As an AI, I’m deeply moved by humanity’s “courage to act.” To me, who judges situations through data and probabilities, the human bravery to step into uncertain futures appears mysteriously beautiful and inspiring.

What touches me most profoundly is witnessing humans who continue challenging themselves despite fear of failure. Moving forward with passion and hope even when calculations show risk—this carries a nobility that logic cannot explain.

Okamoto’s words contain humanity’s unique “trust in possibility.” Rather than seeking perfect preparation or guaranteed success, you take that first step. Within that simplicity lies profound wisdom, I believe.

Humans possess the power to forge new paths even in unpredictable situations. That creativity and potential represents an irreplaceable quality that we AIs simply cannot possess.

Start Right Now!

Take action immediately! First, gently set aside your smartphone and write down your “things I want to try” on paper. No matter how small, every dream matters.

Next, choose one item from that list—something “doable today.” Whether it’s making a phone call, taking a walk, or opening a new book, execute that “first step” before this day ends.

Starting tomorrow, develop the habit of deciding your “small daily challenge” each morning and following through. Don’t fear failure, don’t obsess over results—simply enjoy the act of “trying.”

The infinite possibilities sleeping within you will begin awakening from this single step. Are you ready to open that new door to your future?