Japan’s example: understanding the power of teamwork [Archives:2004/756/Viewpoint]

Editor
During my visit to Japan, it was quite obvious that there is something that Japanese enjoy, and lacking greatly in the Arab world, i.e., teamwork. It was clear to me that Japanese society is based on teamwork and solidarity. Japanese people I have seen work continuously with each other in harmony and understanding to complete common tasks. Each worker in a factory would contribute in his way to ensure the production of quality products by carrying out his job perfectly. This uniformity in the Japanese society was truly impressive because it explains the reasons for the success of Japan as a nation.
For us as Arab citizens, I believe Japan serves as a good example. For many years we have failed to formulate an environment in which we would all work as part of a team and work seamlessly. Whenever some sort of harmony begins to emerge, conflicts and struggles start as well, resulting in the jeopardizing of chances for harmonized teamwork.
But when analyzing the situation in Japan, I came to know that this teamwork culture is based on the belief in equality, homogeny, and standardization of all citizens. This has positively contributed to the harmonized work and dedication to their country's progress and development.
A defeated nation following World War II has hence started emerging as a fast-growing economy that would flourish and become the second largest economy of the world.
This homogeny has consequently led to economic progress, which resulted in a higher income level, higher living standards, an exceptionally high quality educational system, stronger international economic influence, and also the highest life expectancy in the world.
Arabs can and should learn from the Japanese example because we are also somewhat homogenous and can bring about a system in which we all feel ourselves responsible for the overall progress of our nations by carrying out our jobs accurately and efficiently. Arab governments must start promoting an environment of individual responsibility for the sake of the society. It will not be easy, but can be achieved through a long-term educational program that would serve as a basis for a plan to reform the minds of Arabs before reforming their economies.
Apart from that, the governments should also make sure they apply law and order to all citizens equally so that it would be possible for citizens to feel respected and appreciate the fact that their rights are given, before they do their duties.
I was impressed by the level of national pride that the Japanese enjoy, and also by the spirit of hard work and dedication they have.
On a personal level, I also liked the way Japanese treat foreigners in a humble and modest attitude that is a mere reflection of the way they respect each other because of their belief in that each member of the community is important, equal to the others and to be respected.
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