Shikata ga nai: Accepting the Unavoidable
“Shikata ga nai” is a Japanese phrase that roughly translates to “it cannot be helped” or “there is no other way.” It is a phrase often used to express acceptance in situations that cannot be controlled. This does not mean giving up during situations of difficulty but rather having the strength of heart to accept what cannot be changed and move forward in life.
The phrase has its roots in Japanese culture, specifically in the Buddhist concept of “gaman,” which means to endure or persevere through difficult situations with dignity and resilience. This blog post takes a deep dive into the meaning of this phrase and explores when (and when not) to apply it to your daily life.
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