Roppongi Hills
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139)
Sat 2008/12/27 18:08
Spent Christmas evening at Roppongi Hills. After grabbing din dins, we headed to the Sky Deck to enjoy the most awesome views of Tokyo we've ever seen in the open air - photos soon. Then after chucking out time at 11pm, we wandered around the grounds of Roppongi Hills.
As we take another photo walk, I thought I'd cover a topic that I've been meaning to talk about for a while - my having-no-idea-what-I-want-to-do-in-life-teenage-years.
While classmates in secondary school would answer "Computer Engineer" or "Fireman" when asked what they wanted to do later in life, I had no idea what I wanted from life. Being locked up in doors while being brought up in a foster home and being bullied for most of my schooling life wasn't exactly the ideal environment to get inspiration for what I wanted from life.
Ended up taking courses in college just because classmates chose those subjects. Completely failed the exams two years later and retook another year for another attempt - Computer Science failed, Design barely passed. English failed.
Ended up taking courses in college just because classmates chose those subjects. Completely failed the exams two years later and retook another year for another attempt - Computer Science failed, Design barely passed. English failed.
I know the reasons why I didn't do well in college - I hated it. I knew I had to go but didn't know why. The bus ride from Hackney to Leyton was so depressing. I would look out the window from the top floor of the double decker thinking that I wanted more from this life but didn't know what it was.
Arriving at college, I would go to class and try to concentrate on the blackboard. Sitting at the back of the class near the window, I always ended up looking out at the trees by the college gate waiting for something to happen.
Had no interest in Computer Science at the time - it wasn't hands on at all and more about theory.
Did have interest in Design but the teacher was more of a just-get-on-with-it-and-do-what-you-want type person.
Arriving at college, I would go to class and try to concentrate on the blackboard. Sitting at the back of the class near the window, I always ended up looking out at the trees by the college gate waiting for something to happen.
Had no interest in Computer Science at the time - it wasn't hands on at all and more about theory.
Did have interest in Design but the teacher was more of a just-get-on-with-it-and-do-what-you-want type person.
I think it was after college when I spent some time at my dads shoe design studio where I learnt how to design and make shoes. Had a few customers choose my designs too which I was quite please about.
While I was good at designing and making shoes, it wasn't quite what I wanted to do in life. There was still something missing.
While I was good at designing and making shoes, it wasn't quite what I wanted to do in life. There was still something missing.
After working at the studio for a while, I decided to take a business course in South London at the Elephant and Castle.
I cant remember a single thing that they taught that serves useful in running my business today. I do remember that there was a print buying class but don't remember anything that actually helped me when I was ordering print while working for Nature.
Not sure what business courses are like these days but most business practices are going to be effectively learned in the office environment and not in a class - please do correct me if courses are different these days.
I cant remember a single thing that they taught that serves useful in running my business today. I do remember that there was a print buying class but don't remember anything that actually helped me when I was ordering print while working for Nature.
Not sure what business courses are like these days but most business practices are going to be effectively learned in the office environment and not in a class - please do correct me if courses are different these days.
My interests at the time had evolved to liking import game machines. My first machine was a Sega Mega drive. There was a place in Tottenham Court Road which sold import game machines. I would go there to see what new games they had in stock and thats where I first started to meet others who were interested in Japanese culture and games.
Conversations with others who shared the same interest stimulated my hunger for more information about games and Japan. I started to look for Japanese game mags at the Japan Center in Piccadilly where I came across anime and idol mags too. The more I submerged myself in the culture, the more I started to realize where my passion was - to live and work in Japan.
Conversations with others who shared the same interest stimulated my hunger for more information about games and Japan. I started to look for Japanese game mags at the Japan Center in Piccadilly where I came across anime and idol mags too. The more I submerged myself in the culture, the more I started to realize where my passion was - to live and work in Japan.
I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do in Japan. I just had a burning desire to be there. At the time, I didn't have any contacts, knowledge, experience or any idea of how I was going to get to Japan but tried to do everything possible given my environment in London to get me closer to my goal - the first thing being to Learn Japanese.
From reading that Learn Japanese article, you will learn how I came to live and work here and this article goes into detail of how exactly I landed myself a job in Japan.
From reading that Learn Japanese article, you will learn how I came to live and work here and this article goes into detail of how exactly I landed myself a job in Japan.
A student reader of dccom (who we shall call Harry) is excellent at playing the violin. He says that he hates it but believes that its the only thing thats able to get him into colleges. He said he wants to work in the anime or Japan related field but has no idea what to do.
I see Harry as being in a good position because at least he knows what he wants. He just does not know how to get there.
Life would be easy if Harry knew how but the game of life was not created in a way where we all knew exactly how things were going to turn out. Life wants to give us the pleasure of learning and experiencing.
I see Harry as being in a good position because at least he knows what he wants. He just does not know how to get there.
Life would be easy if Harry knew how but the game of life was not created in a way where we all knew exactly how things were going to turn out. Life wants to give us the pleasure of learning and experiencing.
The advice I would give Harry is to just start doing "something" because doing nothing will lead to nothing - doing something always leads to something. Doing something leads to:-
-Learning. Learning gives us information that we need to make judgments and the new found knowledge enables us to pinpoint how, what, where and who to ask.
-Experience. By doing something, one gains experience which is unique to each person because we all interpret events differently. As one gains experience of something, one will learn how they want to go about things. Things may not always work out but we wont know until we start by trying.
-I say "things may not always work out" above but in fact they do. This is because when something didn't go according to plan, we go about other ways of trying to reach our destination until we are successful. I always look on life with optimism and see obstacles or events that don't go according to plan as great opportunities to improve or take a different direction.
Up until I while ago, I would easily get depressed when faced with huge problems. The problems are only huge because I made them huge.
-Learning. Learning gives us information that we need to make judgments and the new found knowledge enables us to pinpoint how, what, where and who to ask.
-Experience. By doing something, one gains experience which is unique to each person because we all interpret events differently. As one gains experience of something, one will learn how they want to go about things. Things may not always work out but we wont know until we start by trying.
-I say "things may not always work out" above but in fact they do. This is because when something didn't go according to plan, we go about other ways of trying to reach our destination until we are successful. I always look on life with optimism and see obstacles or events that don't go according to plan as great opportunities to improve or take a different direction.
Up until I while ago, I would easily get depressed when faced with huge problems. The problems are only huge because I made them huge.
I'm not going to tell Harry what to do but can guide Harry - but its him who has to walk through the door.
If Harry is truly passionate about anime/Japan, he should take a look at the environment, people, tools and facilities available to him and consider how he can make good use of them to get to his destination. Despite living in London, I was able to make good use of my environment to get me here - all written up in that Learn Japanese article.
I beleive that if Harry continues to explore possibilities that he will reach his destination. His passion and focus will enable him to get there.
The human race is still relatively young and we all have basic needs. One of the needs is to eat.
If you just sat in front of your computer for hours on end, most of you will eventually get up from your desk and seek food.
If there is nothing in the refrigerator or cabinets, you will either call for a pizza or go out to get something.
If all the shops around you were closed, you would travel to another part of town to seek food. You could alternatively wait until the morning when the shops open but you will still go out to get food.
The point I'm trying to make here is that if you really want something, you have the ability to get it.
Some of us have health constraints that may prevent us from easily doing stuff but if you are relatively healthy and can easily move around then you really don't have any excuse to do nothing.
If you just sat in front of your computer for hours on end, most of you will eventually get up from your desk and seek food.
If there is nothing in the refrigerator or cabinets, you will either call for a pizza or go out to get something.
If all the shops around you were closed, you would travel to another part of town to seek food. You could alternatively wait until the morning when the shops open but you will still go out to get food.
The point I'm trying to make here is that if you really want something, you have the ability to get it.
Some of us have health constraints that may prevent us from easily doing stuff but if you are relatively healthy and can easily move around then you really don't have any excuse to do nothing.
Now I would like to talk about something I call the "Comfort Zone."
The comfort zone is where one is content with their current situation and I'm going to use an ex colleague who I shall name as Sally. Sally had a job doing what she was good at (web design) and had a small team to manage. She had a good salary and good working hours considering that it was Tokyo.
But she wanted more from her life than just being content - she wanted to be happy. My personal interpretation is that being happy and being content are two different things. Being content fulfills basic human needs of being able to eat and have shelter. Being happy is going a step further and fulfilling the need to live ones passion.
One day, I asked Sally why she didn't start to do something about her situation. She said that she was waiting for somebody to give her an opportunity. When I asked "who", she said "I don't know..."
The comfort zone is where one is content with their current situation and I'm going to use an ex colleague who I shall name as Sally. Sally had a job doing what she was good at (web design) and had a small team to manage. She had a good salary and good working hours considering that it was Tokyo.
But she wanted more from her life than just being content - she wanted to be happy. My personal interpretation is that being happy and being content are two different things. Being content fulfills basic human needs of being able to eat and have shelter. Being happy is going a step further and fulfilling the need to live ones passion.
One day, I asked Sally why she didn't start to do something about her situation. She said that she was waiting for somebody to give her an opportunity. When I asked "who", she said "I don't know..."
OK, I've babbled on for a bit now go going to wrap up with a few takeaways:-
-I've previously recommended to identify and do what one is good at but my beliefs have changed since then and firmly beleive that one should do what one is most passionate about instead. My beliefs are that doing something you are passionate about will actually get you further in life. The reason is that with passion and focus, you can achieve anything anyway. And if you are passionate about what you are good at then even better.
-Think long term - not short term. Working in a field where you are doing something you are good at but not passionate about may enable you to be content and feed you but you are likely going to have the "what-if" burning inside of you until the day you die.
Money is indeed important in this society we live in and I understand that one may need to do something that one may not exactly like to make ends meet. But, one can also be doing something on the side at the same time (learning, experiencing, meeting) in order to fulfill ones real passion.
Many people make excuses for themselves like "but I got no time to do X" or "by the time I get home I'm so tired." These people are actually their own biggest obstacle because they build a tall wall of an excuse to do nothing.
If one can make time to eat, poo and pee then one can make time if they are passionate enough to start learning, experiencing, building or meeting. Lets encourage ourselves - not discourage buy making excuses.
-Do something - anything. Do it now. If you are not sure what to do, just start by doing anything! I may make it sound plain and simple but in fact it is. Something leads to something. Nothing leads to nothing.
-Finally, life is short. One may not appreciate just how short it is while we are young but really start to understand as we get older. I'm in my late 30's now and am under no illusion whatsoever that I'm going to die at old age - I could die anytime like any of us. I want to ensure that I died while living a life doing what I love most. Dont want to live forever and am happy with the time I've been given and will make sure I make the most of it.
I could have chosen 15 years(ish) ago to stay content making shoes (which I was good at) back in London. I chose happiness instead and took the steps needed one by one to get me where I am today. Life is great and I love my job and life in Japan. You can acheive anything with passion and focus.
-I've previously recommended to identify and do what one is good at but my beliefs have changed since then and firmly beleive that one should do what one is most passionate about instead. My beliefs are that doing something you are passionate about will actually get you further in life. The reason is that with passion and focus, you can achieve anything anyway. And if you are passionate about what you are good at then even better.
-Think long term - not short term. Working in a field where you are doing something you are good at but not passionate about may enable you to be content and feed you but you are likely going to have the "what-if" burning inside of you until the day you die.
Money is indeed important in this society we live in and I understand that one may need to do something that one may not exactly like to make ends meet. But, one can also be doing something on the side at the same time (learning, experiencing, meeting) in order to fulfill ones real passion.
Many people make excuses for themselves like "but I got no time to do X" or "by the time I get home I'm so tired." These people are actually their own biggest obstacle because they build a tall wall of an excuse to do nothing.
If one can make time to eat, poo and pee then one can make time if they are passionate enough to start learning, experiencing, building or meeting. Lets encourage ourselves - not discourage buy making excuses.
-Do something - anything. Do it now. If you are not sure what to do, just start by doing anything! I may make it sound plain and simple but in fact it is. Something leads to something. Nothing leads to nothing.
-Finally, life is short. One may not appreciate just how short it is while we are young but really start to understand as we get older. I'm in my late 30's now and am under no illusion whatsoever that I'm going to die at old age - I could die anytime like any of us. I want to ensure that I died while living a life doing what I love most. Dont want to live forever and am happy with the time I've been given and will make sure I make the most of it.
I could have chosen 15 years(ish) ago to stay content making shoes (which I was good at) back in London. I chose happiness instead and took the steps needed one by one to get me where I am today. Life is great and I love my job and life in Japan. You can acheive anything with passion and focus.
End of lecture ^^; More lectures in the motivational category.
The Japanese are eager to get rid of the Christmas decorations by evening of the 25th...
The Japanese are eager to get rid of the Christmas decorations by evening of the 25th...
Trees are cut and bagged up with the decorations still in place. Nearly forgot to mention that many of these photos have been uploaded to my Wallpaper Pool.
Edit:Another thing I forgot to mention - you may notice that all photos in this article are larger than the usual. I've set Mirai Gaia to build large photos in the article if there are less than 21 photos. Lemme know if you had probs viewing.
Edit:Another thing I forgot to mention - you may notice that all photos in this article are larger than the usual. I've set Mirai Gaia to build large photos in the article if there are less than 21 photos. Lemme know if you had probs viewing.
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Its a lovely evening so thought we would go walkies around the Lalaport a...(more)
Fri 11/21 20:24 comments (183)
Otaku
Awesome pics Danny and very inspirational article Thanks for share it
(ID #426732) Posted on 2008/12/27 17:43
Filmmaker
Thank you for the Lecture.... I learned this from you a couple of articles ago... but I already took the path before I I came on board to the DC world.. But this article simply reminds I'm the right path... And the comfort zone is a dangerous one to fall too..... loved image23853...
(ID #426735) Posted on 2008/12/27 17:49
Legionnarion_Conquistadorz (Registered on 2008/12/18 20:49)
Student
and that's why DannyChoo.com is popular; it's more than just the usual articles about anime and japan. p.s splendid photos.
(ID #426748) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:04
Blogger & Former Tentacle Support
I couldn't agree more!
(ID #427092) Posted on 2008/12/28 02:13
Read every word of it. Always nice reading reflections of people, rather than hate. Glad you found happiness in what you're doing Danny. Take care.
(ID #427571) Posted on 2008/12/28 16:41
*sigh* I gotta post more and lurking less after reading that article. Nice pics, kinda made me feel poor....
(ID #426742) Posted on 2008/12/27 17:54
Video Reviewer of Anime Figures, Mecha and Merch (youtube.com/user/Actar576295)
Ooh! Isn't Roppongi Hills the place where all the villains gathered at the end of Powerpuff Girls Z?
(ID #426743) Posted on 2008/12/27 17:56
Legionnarion_Conquistadorz (Registered on 2008/12/18 20:49)
Student
Really? Cool, never knew... then again, I didnt watch it XD
(ID #426751) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:05
Scientist, unemployed.
It seems that a lot of anime reference Roppongi. I guess it's a really famous place.
(ID #427231) Posted on 2008/12/28 06:43
Student Otaku (ITM Student) and ACG NA Staff
Ah... Well, I do want to live in Japan...same with Harry...I have no clue how to get there... Just like you Danny, I don't like uni as they just seem to force information that some might be helpful and some...can't use at all in the working field... Just thinking about going to Japan and living there is a dream...it helps sometimes to get me motivated to study... I wonder what good opportunities in Japan for a business student...after graduating from uni...
(ID #426747) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:03
former Emperor of Britannia
Beautiful pictures you have here danny. Going on the part of teenage life with not knowing which path to take. I do believe that many of experienced such. In my case, i had so much change of heart until someone told me that "Games are created by computer geniuses". That triggered me to take up Computer Science. But now after doing tons of things in the net. I started to feel that i prefer creating web designs, doing more CG art and stuff. So overall the programming concept is still there but aiming for games for me now is different. Hope i could reach my aim to become a visual artist for a game company ^_^ and create web pages as awesome as danny has.
(ID #426758) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:09
More words of wisdom from Danny Sensei ^_^ I can competetly agree that you have to do what you can while you find out what you want to do. I started out in retail & then worked as a graphic designer even though I knew I was rubbish. I could get by because I undestood the computer systems & no one else did. Eventually I went to an interview & found that the guy who got the job was ex Disney. That made me move to IT support where I work now. Its not glamourous but its the right job for me. Also, I have never been to Roppongi. I have always read that its full of Gaijin and I couldnt see the point of going to Tokyo to be surrounded by other foreigners. May visit during my next trip in March.
(ID #426759) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:10
DCX001-Prototype
"Something leads to something. Nothing leads to nothing." I fully agreed on this quote~~~ Thank you very much for all the great lesson you had brought to us ^_^ Our biggest enemy is no other than ourself... excuses always kill all opportunity...... Are all these photo taken by your Lumix LX3 (Semi-DSLR)??? They look like it's being taken from a DSLR, very gorgeous photo~~~~~ Japanese sure work around the clock fast at removing all the Christmas decoration by end of the day.......... Do something - anything. Do it now!
(ID #426761) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:13
CEO MIrai Inc
Took the Kiss 2 this time. Should have brought both with me though.
(ID #426924) Posted on 2008/12/27 22:29
Thanks for this inspirational article Danny. I, too, have no idea what my ambition is... Well, at least I'm starting to learn Japanese and not doing nothing ^^; Alright, guess I'll have to score in SPM before thinking bout my job. Thanks again Danny for motivating me ^^ *Off to do some revision*
(ID #426763) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:14
Professional Panhandler
I love your life lectures Danny, just wished I came across lectures like these earlier ^^"
(ID #426767) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:16
university film student
Interesting and thought-provoking as usual. Tall buildings look pretty. In one of your many articles, you mentioned that it was important to always stop and take a look at what you're doing, at your life at the moment. I usually only remember to do that when I read one of these articles. ^^; Thank you. And the quick disposal of Christmas-related decorations seem to highlight two things I've already known about Japan, one that I admire and the other not so much: the former being Japanese efficiency, and the latter being the completely commercial interpration of Christmas. Not that I'm pointing fingers, since Japan is still primarily Buddhist and Shinto.
(ID #426769) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:19
Student
Wow. This is the best article I've come across so far. Very inspirational. I've learned soo much from you. Thank You Danny!
(ID #426773) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:23
Nice article and photos - the trees with artificial lights actually look good. "being happy and being content are two different things" - shall remember that. :)
(ID #426774) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:24
very nice pics...thks danny for sharing
(ID #426776) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:30
Lurker, and part time super-villian.
I remember my I-have-no-clue-what-I-want years. They were from the ages of 9 to 21 ^^; I have a more "Trial and Error" view on life and how to get there. Example: I love engineering and physics, and I love working with/training animals. Tried to go down the animal side of things by going to college to get the official qualification. Sadly when I was done every goon and his missus was working in the zoo/pet trade. Wages fell and hours sucked. So no I'm following my other passion, engineering. So I'm going into the Royal Navy as a weapons engineer, earning good money, see bits of the world, and make some awesome friends. Decided not to pursue living or working in Japan, as my passion for my hobbies isnt so strong as to make me want that lifestyle. Plus having the otaku thing as a hobby keeps it fun ^_^
(ID #426778) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:30
part time illustrationist, doll clothing seamstress
nice shots Danny :) I think I'm still trying to find my way but I would love to do something I am passionate about before my time too lol! Ganbarimasu ^O^
(ID #426780) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:32
Pokemon master
Heh heh, I'm coincidentally listening to the Avenue Q soundtrack right now, and it's quite fitting despite being sung by vulgar puppets. :P Thank you for this wonderful article Danny. I'm going to go do something now!
(ID #426781) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:37
Danny, Thanks for the great post again. I'm sure Harry is listening, he just needs a push & a shove to get things rolling. And he definitely needs to break the comfort zone. I'm sure it's something he tells himself all the time, but execution is always the issue with him. He needs to build up his confidence a bit more by acting on his ideas more often and keeping busy, rather than letting them sit around in his head until they've eventually faded away. Also, thanks for the add to the list ;).
(ID #426786) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:53
Thank you very much Danny as always for your words.
(ID #426789) Posted on 2008/12/27 18:56
Student & Authorized Chicken Slapper
wow tokyo looks awesomely decorated for x-mas, sure wish I could see it. And btw danny I just read your article talking about ur childhood, dude I can't even say I came anywhere near ur situation or understand it at all but dude I am sure it contributed to who you are today so maybe it was a good thing in the long run.
(ID #426792) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:01
AdvDip Network Security - CCNA - Ironport - Security+
Yet another motivational post Reading that, it seemed like you were poking at every bad point that i had - i don't think you missed one at all Many people have all told me things along the lines of "you're still young, have fun as long as you can" or "If you fail something, don't worry too much. You still have many more years than i had", etcetcetc. I think i've literally degenerated as a person and have thrown away many years, months, days of constructive things i could be doing - that also includes many of my hobbies that have been on freeze. ie: I went on a cycle for the first time today in 4 months - something i used to be completely into and would do everyday i think it's time i got off my ass again - very grateful thanks Danny
(ID #426796) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:03
The lights are very pretty~ Helped keep me awake during the lecture.. but I still managed to get something out of it XD The advice does help in real life
(ID #426799) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:06
DID I ALREADY MENTION THAT I LOVE JAPAN ? ;)
(ID #426802) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:10
Looks great there, thanks for the pics.
(ID #426811) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:26
security/3d graphic artist
Thanks for the lecture Danny. Same as a couple of people on here.. already started to chase my dream before coming on here, but learning while on DC that i'm on the right path. Mine was that i wanted to build models for the movies. stuff like the Enterprise space ships.. stuff like that, and i build beutiful plastic models, but they started to go CGI and not build anything, so i wondered around from job to job, then one person said i should go to art school, so that night when i got home i found 4 schools that interested me (one in London) and found a good one and went off.. didn't know if id find a job there, if i would make it through school, but i did, and now i'm done and i'm doing what i like most.. creating stuff with my own hands. There were times that i wanted to give up on myself, but i never wanted to quit.. worked hard to get a better job without a glass ceiling.. and do what i like.. A happy life ahead of me.. and thanks to you.. an even better one :) Thanks Danny for being here for all of us!
(ID #426814) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:27
Student and full-time otaku
Good article and nice pics Danny. Too bad I just can't seem to bring myself to think more positive lately; feels just like everything I want/like/try/feel doesn't matter anyways....
(ID #426816) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:29
JR. College Student
hmmm I was looking forward to more advice on what to do in college as an unmotivated failure...
(ID #426831) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:43
CEO MIrai Inc
Its all in the article - read it again ;-)
(ID #426923) Posted on 2008/12/27 22:28
JR. College Student
Well... you said you found your passion but it's easier said than done. I was thinking maybe you would have some advice on what to do in the meantime.
(ID #427518) Posted on 2008/12/28 14:23
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
Look for your passion. I'm not trying to be funny. Like Danny said start doing something. It can be anything that you enjoy, have a passion for as a hobby or are good at. Maybe you will not stick with it. That is ok because it can lead to new things you might decide to stick with as a career. As you do opportunities open up and you meet people. This is how many of us have gotten to where we are now. I have a friend that decided to work part time at the local library while she was going to high school. She worked in the community college library while we both were getting out AA degrees. She received her bachelor's degree in Business Management and did her grad. work in library science because she had experience from working in libraries. One thing can lead to another...
(ID #427543) Posted on 2008/12/28 15:17
JR. College Student
Yea.. all I need is a job -_-
(ID #427792) Posted on 2008/12/28 23:31
I'm impressed at how well some of those pictures look. Are you using a tripod of any sort on the building images or is that the image stabilizer at work? I was looking to pick up an LX3 when I was back in HK two months ago, but was surprised that the prices there were more than they were in the US. I convinced myself that I didn't need a new camera when I got back to the US and opted to save money for a MacBook Pro, but I think I've reversed the decision after seeing more and more of your city pics. ^^;;
(ID #426832) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:43
~Undine~
Very nice article and so very true what you state. Alas I must admit that as I have not discovered my passion yet, I'm still in the content and "I'm so tired when I get home" zone. But I'm working on tearing those walls down, changing yourself is possible, I've done it before so I know I can continue on and do it again. ^^
(ID #426834) Posted on 2008/12/27 19:47
Japan just look awesome in the nights of Christmas. These are some good motivational talks that you have given. Really looking forward for more.
(ID #426862) Posted on 2008/12/27 20:22
Thanks Danny for this post. My teen days are way past me and I still isn't sure what I want in life. Such a sad thing. What you say about being content and being happy is very true. I really hope to have the courage to move away from comfort zone and pursue my passion, whatever I identifies that to be.
(ID #426867) Posted on 2008/12/27 20:29
Computer geek by day, computer geek by night
Very encouraging, Danny. It's sort of like confirmation that I'm on the right track. I don't know 'why' I want to go to Japan (thinking with my head); I just know that it's this burning desire inside. I can't afford to go there yet, so I'm doing what I *can* do: learning Japanese. Thanks, man.
(ID #426870) Posted on 2008/12/27 20:34
Illustrator & Designer
Thanks for the great post, Danny. I definitely didn't pay much attention to the photos of Roppongi Hills since I was so interested in what you were trying to say. Will have to re-"view" this article again soon. I've found recently my destination keeps changing and I'm not sure what I'm most passionate about. I'm passionate about a lot of things. And I'm also at the stage of my life where I feel responsible not just for me but for my partner and our future together. She makes me very very happy and I'd never thought I could find a person that can make me feel that way as I've always thought my passion and where I was most happy were my hobbies. Anyway, like I've always said, you're inspiration to a lot people here with what you've achieved Danny and it's always great to get your advice and motivational speeches for our own journeys and destinations. :)
(ID #426875) Posted on 2008/12/27 20:42
Illustrator & Designer
Oh I was also going to ask, what no poll this time??
(ID #426876) Posted on 2008/12/27 20:43
CEO MIrai Inc
Couldn't think of one that I didn't ask before ^^;
(ID #426921) Posted on 2008/12/27 22:27
IT Manager
I like all your motivational posts. Very inspiring. I am still far from reaching my own happiness, but I need to keep moving forward towards my goal.
(ID #426897) Posted on 2008/12/27 21:13
Thank you very much, Danny. I am still a student so still don't know much about life. But I will remember not to make excuses that prevent me from learning many other things , which I still usually make.
(ID #426908) Posted on 2008/12/27 21:58
Amazing danny you also studied in leyton, Was it leyton 6th form college? Im from waltamstow btw, Hackney is still pretty bad as it used to be
(ID #426917) Posted on 2008/12/27 22:19
CEO MIrai Inc
It was ^^;
(ID #426918) Posted on 2008/12/27 22:25
you should come and visit london sometime i bet it has changed quite a bit, Espically with the new funding to the east end of london.
(ID #426922) Posted on 2008/12/27 22:27
Policy & Research Officer
As usual very inspiring. If not for your inspiration, I wouldn't have gotten off my butt to start learning Japanese, restart my interest in magic and continued my passion for blogging.
(ID #426941) Posted on 2008/12/27 23:02
Student/Music Producer/Web Designer
I love the photography on this blog post. This, also, is probably my most favorite article from you. :D
(ID #426947) Posted on 2008/12/27 23:07
Daigakusei [Consular and Diplomatic Affairs]
awesome pics as always^^ striking story also~ the game known as life, savor it!
(ID #426984) Posted on 2008/12/27 23:47
Another moving post. I know a few people who are in that wasteland of self-confusion and thinking that they want to be doing something but don't know how to get there and are discouraged. I think our society envelops us with the misconception that it should be easy to get to the point you want to get to and if it turns out not to be, you give up. For example, say you wanted to find a shop in Tokyo. Would you give up if you couldn't find a map? Would you give up after walking around for 5 minutes? 10 minutes? If you really wanted to go to that shop, you wouldn't give up. I think the same should apply to situations in life. I've wanted to work in Japan, even just for a short while, before finding DC. But Danny's words have helped motivate me just a little bit more. Thanks Danny!
(ID #426988) Posted on 2008/12/27 23:55
what a coincidence! and there i was today in kinokuniya, staring at countless supposedly motivational books, trying to discover my true purpose in life... don't ask me why, but i just felt that my life wasn't going the way i wanted... especially with my abysmal performance this semester in uni. i am starting to think electrical engineering ain't for me.... argh PS: ya need to write a book one of these days danny. i'd buy it.
(ID #426991) Posted on 2008/12/27 23:59
I give up with electronic engineering in the second year and it was a great decision, don't be afraid of give up. I'm still having nightmares with Kirchhoff :P
(ID #427018) Posted on 2008/12/28 00:31
afatcow (Registered on 2008/08/28 17:59)
agreed, danny really needs to write a book "the story of my life: how to find something to do with your life" by danny choo :D
(ID #427132) Posted on 2008/12/28 03:48
Pori Student
Thanks for yet another inspirational post Danny. Im in a polytechnic pursuing a diploma which I chose simply because I wasn't interested in anything else - I didnt know what i wanted at that time too. However i plan to finish it anyway and then see where life takes me from there... I believe now I will find my passion someday and then I'll chase that passion, like how you did =D
(ID #427015) Posted on 2008/12/28 00:27
Nice article Danny and quite fitting for me personally at this time, as the company I work for (video game developer) has just gone bust. It can be difficult to pick yourself up again after a big set back.
(ID #427030) Posted on 2008/12/28 00:53
Awesome photos, Tokyo is really beautiful at night :).
(ID #427036) Posted on 2008/12/28 01:03
As usual you are very inspirational, and say the things some people need to hear without telling them what to do. I'm half in that boat. I'm still just 19 so it's hard to figure out what or how to do what I want to do. I know very well that I love to draw, paint, make CG's etc, and it's what makes me happy. Creating things always brings a smile to my face. I do everything anime style, which is what is hard. I don't know how to be successful, but I'm part of the way there. I'm almost fluent in Japanese, and I know that I would love to work in Japan. I just have no idea how to go about it. In the meantime I'm just trying to improve my skills and learn more kanji, till I figure out how to achieve what I want to do. ^^' To make this more associable, here's a link to my current gallery. mizusawamisuzu.deviantart.com One of my other wishes is to make my own personal website, but I've no clue where to start learning html and find hosting. ^^;;;
(ID #427067) Posted on 2008/12/28 01:38
Forgot to mention that I'm in limbo with college. For a moment I was going to study Business, but I quickly grew bored of the concept and now don't know what to study!
(ID #427071) Posted on 2008/12/28 01:43
Polytechnic Senior, Bronze Lifesaving Trainee, Mech Designer, Pokemon Indexer.
Aw man, the poor trees... But it sure is well-decorated over there.
(ID #427069) Posted on 2008/12/28 01:40
Why don't they leave the decor until at least Boxing Day... :( Great, just when I need some directions. Thanks ^^
(ID #427080) Posted on 2008/12/28 01:51
Lover of Akiba!
I love this kind of articles, thanks again Danny!
(ID #427082) Posted on 2008/12/28 01:55
Danny don't know how you do it, but you really do an amazing job writing this articles. You really pour your heart and soul into them. I have to say, that the description of harry describe many people. I have to include myself in that group of people, but getting myself out of it. I am working extensively now, and doing well now. Learning japanese and doing lots of research. There is massive amounts of information about Japan, all over the web. But , here in this page you get a little of everything. You basically motivate, share, guide and lend a guide without knowing. Thank you , hopefully will get a chance to meet you once i get to tokyo.
(ID #427103) Posted on 2008/12/28 02:35
Thanks Danny. ^^ Ironically, imma go do something right now.. going to a piano lesson. >.>; But hey it'll lead to something good hopefully.
(ID #427113) Posted on 2008/12/28 02:46
Technical Writer/Editor, Designer, Collector, Artist, Nice Guy
@Mimi-chan: Hmmm, are you the "Harry" that DC is talking about? ^o^
(ID #427138) Posted on 2008/12/28 04:33
Pokemon master
I thought Mimi liked piano/music? :0
(ID #427143) Posted on 2008/12/28 04:57
Yeah, I'm Harry. xD Piano really put me in a "harry" situation throughout high school. It's something that I can't quit but what can I do with it? Play anime songs? And yeah it did get me into MIT. But I still can't quit. Have a few more competitions to enter this year.
(ID #427211) Posted on 2008/12/28 06:31
Scientist, unemployed.
Well, you could compose game soundtracks. Classical music gets used a lot in RPGs. I should know, I've played my share of them. You could also use it to bridge into being a VA.
(ID #427232) Posted on 2008/12/28 06:46
Hotdog Repairman
Mimi is hairy?
(ID #427282) Posted on 2008/12/28 07:33
Pokemon master
I remember you saying you might major in music, so I thought you liked it. ^^; A lot of people in my school are in a similar situation. We're in a bunch of activities that we don't particularly enjoy but are doing them so it will look good on college apps.
(ID #427296) Posted on 2008/12/28 08:11
Technical Writer/Editor, Designer, Collector, Artist, Nice Guy
@Mimi-chan: Yup, I know the boxed feeling. Not music but the technical field... At MIT's rival RPI, I escaped from Architecture to Civil Engineering. Then left C.E. before earning my master's. But now, I'm a Technical Writer/Editor with blogging on the side. Luckily, the tech field is a huge flexible field... If we keep our eyes open, nothing is set in stone.
(ID #427304) Posted on 2008/12/28 08:25
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
I have a love/hate relationship with piano too. My mom made me take lessons for many years. I'm sorry now that I quit then I reached High School. I never could be a professional, but it would have ben nice for relaxation now. Might want to keep the skill around. Maybe it might help add to your income someday...
(ID #427522) Posted on 2008/12/28 14:31
Thank you for the inspirational article,Danny. This will help me a lot.
(ID #427120) Posted on 2008/12/28 03:23
afatcow (Registered on 2008/08/28 17:59)
what a great post... great content and great pictures :D ...dang, gotta do my homework now. (reading just made me more guilty about procrastinating D:)
(ID #427131) Posted on 2008/12/28 03:43
Sensei!, Benkyou yoku ganbarimashita!! haha...seriously, this entry was very inspirational. ~and fabulous pictures of the xmas decor.
(ID #427142) Posted on 2008/12/28 04:54
Krauser-san II is the father of Roppongi Hills!
(ID #427150) Posted on 2008/12/28 05:08
Ninja / Engineer / Sensei / 魔法少女 (What!?! I can't be, I'm a guy...)
Now looking back, I realize that I kinda did something wrong in college. Meaning that I did something that would make me content and help me reach a comfort zone, rather than be passionate. My parents kinda pushed me in that direction when I wanted to do something else. It also doesn't help that my parents think more about money and who they want me to date, rather than what I would be passionate about. But I'm glad that after some more thought, I at least have an idea of what I really want to do now. Danny's inspirational articles always help to make that spark of wanting-to-do-something bigger and helps to push me (and others as well) forward. I hope that when I reach Danny's age, I can call myself successful. Until that day comes, I will have to work harder to make up for my mistakes and to move forward in the right direction. ^^
(ID #427169) Posted on 2008/12/28 05:34
Hotdog Repairman
Lovely pics, and inpirational as always Danny. Good to see you took some time off to enjoy the holiday festivities. Your photos remind me of my walk thru Roppongi Hills, and how much I miss visiting Japan. That huge LV store wasn't there at that time. Looks awesome; go there, I must.
(ID #427174) Posted on 2008/12/28 05:42
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
You should go again and again and... I often look at photos of Japan and can remember being at that particular place. I look at photos of Shinsaibashi and I can smell the foods, hear the sounds and feel myself among the shoppers. I can also hear the deafening sound of those pachinko parlors. ^o^ Japan has a way of growing on people...
(ID #427531) Posted on 2008/12/28 14:46
Online Shop
Too bad I did not have Danny's mindset or this site was not there when I was younger x_x I can't believe how Danny can always come up with this inspirational posts, I guess some people just think that way. Those pics are awesome too, I'll visit Roppongi next time I visit Japan too~
(ID #427185) Posted on 2008/12/28 05:58
Nice pics there Danny and very nice article that hit the nail on the head for me...I'm still within my comfort zone and I gotta say even when I try stepping out of it I end up pulling my foot back in...guess I'm my own worst enemy...
(ID #427239) Posted on 2008/12/28 06:55
Scientist, unemployed.
Some colleges have changed their courses to be more proactive and useful. Several of my chemistry classes were geared towards the real world. Others, however, were less useful. I guess it really depends on the course itself. And I have been in the "I don't want to do this" state. I have also been in the, "My goals are now unattainable because I am a doofus," position (I can never really get my engineering degree now.) At least I still have a goal. And I am trying my damnedest to get to it. Outside forces are definitely hurting me, but I will still push.
(ID #427242) Posted on 2008/12/28 06:56
I still have to figure out what I wanna do. I thought I wanted to make video games, but I didn't really like it all that much.
(ID #427247) Posted on 2008/12/28 06:59
Programmer/IT/Student
Very inspirational post, Danny. You addressed my biggest question in life at this point: how to start getting where you want to get. I already know that I want to work in a field related to anime/manga and hopefully computers in some way. Either field would make me happy, but both together would be the best. My problem is, of course, how to get there. I'm taking college courses, fulfilling pre-requisites, getting good grades, and having a relatively good time doing so, but I'm still at the point where I have no idea how to get where I want to get, so your advice to just "do something" makes complete sense. There is no way to know exactly what route I'm going to go, no way of knowing what will happen, so if I just do *something*, then it will lead to something else eventually. Thank you Danny, I always look forward to your motivational posts. ^^
(ID #427249) Posted on 2008/12/28 07:00
Trying to become a blogger.
Awesome post Danny, great article and photos as always. I'm 27 and still have done nothing with my life. My problems are: 1 - I'm a wheelchair due to having Duchene muscular dystrophy and needing help with everything except to use my computer and play games. 2 - I have had some crappy health problems thankfully not to my DMD which has sadly made me afraid to do anything other than what is in my comfort zone. I worked at a game store (which I really enjoyed when I was in college and then had a health problem so I stopped working and gave up college (btw I am not a fan of school) so now it’s been 4-5 years I've wasted away on my computer. I have many passions that include Japanese Culture, Anime (well all types of cartoons), J Music, games, food, and comic books. But since I'll probably never go to Japan a few of my choices may never happen. One of my goals is to form a company with my sister that deals in character design, comics, cartoons, games and other stuff related to that. Also I’m trying to write a fantasy novel with my crap writing skills. And possibly do a Asian music internet radio show. But nothing is happening with these things at the moment. I often think about these things, but being afraid of trying to do them is what is truly holding me back. I'm always told I inspire others but what's so inspiring about me…
(ID #427297) Posted on 2008/12/28 08:12
Don't say that your writing skills are crap! ^^ keep on writing if that's what you want hehe ^_^ and you'll get better at it. well I'm sure you know it without me saying it to you -_- aaarrk! I'm babbling stupid stuff again, sorry~~ Actually I always say the same thing about myself, that I'm not good at writing. I want to get better at writing and actually get something finished. I always start a story but never get it done.. that's one of my problems :P I have too many ideas but not enough skills. :) heh.. well I guess I just have to keep on writing xD
(ID #427484) Posted on 2008/12/28 13:12
Student
Wonderful post! Very inspirational but I'm still lost >< 3rd year of college and I still have no idea what I'm going to do... I love Japanese culture and would like to visit and/or work in Japan some day but I really think I'm lacking in the skills department :/ I don't think there's anything I'm good at that I could apply to a job I would actually enjoy doing...
(ID #427324) Posted on 2008/12/28 09:10
These articles are more useful than the Career Pathways class I was required to take in high school.
(ID #427326) Posted on 2008/12/28 09:12
Thanks for the inspirational lectures, right now i'm wavering on the edge of my dreams. i'm on the right path but my father is against my decision so much that hes been attacking me mentally to the point where i want to start college over(just barely started too). I can feel the change of atmospheric pressure whenever i'm around him. He wants me to be a doctor or pharmacist but i hate anything that deals with science since i am weak in that area except for math. So these kinds of posts really helps me put my mind back on track.
(ID #427331) Posted on 2008/12/28 09:25
Danny, you seriously need to write a book, or something. Your motivational posts are the only ones that have actually motivated me. Having a similar childhood (On an emotional level, not a what happened. I was lucky enough to live with a loving family full time), it is very easy to relate to what you write. This post, more than any other you have put up, has made me renew my interest in learning Japanese. I'd been slacking off greatly because of the difficulty of me creating a Japanese environment (Parents don't fully approve), but I feel as though I can make some progress with it. Thanks.
(ID #427346) Posted on 2008/12/28 09:45
Thanks for sharing, very inspirational. Nice pics, btw.
(ID #427354) Posted on 2008/12/28 10:05
I always get so engrossed in the text of these posts that I end up finding out I was scrolling right by the pictures! "Not sure what business courses are like these days but most business practices are going to be effectively learned in the office environment" Very true, I've always advocated vocational/technical schools for learning rather than in the classroom. "One day, I asked Sally why she didn't start to do something about her situation. She said that she was waiting for somebody to give her an opportunity. When I asked "who", she said "I don't know..."" Kind of reminds me of people who complain about being single, but have never even asked a girl out before. Just like Sally won't be able to get an opportunity by just sitting there, you won't be able to get a girlfriend/boyfriend by just sitting there(most of the time anyways, unless you are very good looking) And on the topic of Roppongi, I remember my dad went to Japan in the 90's many times for business and one time they went to Roppongi and they ate at a very swanky place(don't know what it was though) were their meal costed hundreds of dollars and they almost got into a fight with some American baseball players who play in Japan and apparently some famous baseball player with his wife. My dad and his friends were taking photos and the players thought they were part of a Japanese gossip magazine.
(ID #427355) Posted on 2008/12/28 10:06
I sometimes feel like I have a little "Harry" inside me... I could choose stability and a quite good salary every month, but in the other hand the shaft of my interests and way of living is Anime/Manga/Games/Japan... I know you fully succeeded searching your target, but I also know some guys who went to another country to live and didn't precisely succeed... This articles of yours help me, but for some reason, I'm still doubtful (and time goes by...) ._.U
(ID #427369) Posted on 2008/12/28 10:23
Student artist
Danny nice speech, I think you should write a book. Anyway not to seem rude but the overshadow of the image is making some text fuzzy. Just saying
(ID #427425) Posted on 2008/12/28 12:05
suneo (Registered on 2007/12/17 20:54)
I'd like to pursue happiness someday, but at the moment I've no clue what I'm doing. You know how some people are like...they may be lazy but intelligent, not intelligent but outgoing...some redeeming quality that they have that sort of "makes up" for the lack of another quality. I feel that I have no make up quality in me. I can be very quiet, not the smartest guy in the room, not outgoing, etc... Some might say that it's hidden deep within me, but as of yet in 20+ years of life, I've yet to discover what that something is : There is one thing I'd like to do before I kick the bucket though, and that is to somehow become fluent in Japanese. But so far in 6-7 years of study, japanese preschoolers could probably still speak better than me lol
(ID #427465) Posted on 2008/12/28 12:44
Nice photos and inspiring article again. "Something leads to something. Nothing leads to nothing." - I'm always doing nothing so it leads me to nothing for these 20+ years. "being happy and being content are two different things" - I'm staying in my current job because of its salary and no worries in the job (being content), but not very happy too. So these two quotes are true and I agree with it. I think I belongs to those people building a tall wall of an excuse to do nothing. ^^; After reading this article, I woken up a bit. Especially after reading the part on having time to pee and poo. ^^; Need to stop giving myself excuses and start doing something.
(ID #427491) Posted on 2008/12/28 13:28
Damn.. I seriously started crying while reading this o__o because what you say Danny is so true. Right now my sister isn't doing so well. Basically she knows what she would like to do BUT she puts her boyfriend in more importance. Because of her boyfriend she moved to a place where she can't study or even get the proper treatment for her depression. The people there don't even listen to her. And what moved me a lot in the article is the fact that you yourself put the so called "chains" on yourself. I've noticed that my sister does this a lot and she makes so much excuses too. It's all about your attitude, the way you think. It saddens me when my sister doesn't see how much she has around her. She has great relatives, big brother, me (her little sister), her dad who ain't perfect and did stupid things but who now tries his best to compensate the mistakes he has done. and she has a boyfriend who is trying to understand her. Sometimes I get mad at her because she doesn't see this fact. I really want to help her and make her understand that she herself has to do something as well. She can't only wait that someone else would cure her depression or that medicine would solve all her problems. It's true that medicine helps but I don't think it solves the problem. I wish she could start thinking a little like you Danny :P more positively and see the bright side. Our family had our little misfortunes, but every family has them. I've managed to think positively and I'm trying to get my sister to think positively as well :) Anyways I'll stop now because it came a little offtopic. I hope I didn't say anything I shouldn't have said.. Sorry, this was a really long comment :/
(ID #427525) Posted on 2008/12/28 14:36
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
At first I felt a little upset when you mentioned about people using that tired old excuse "I'm so busy..." I often find myself saying I don't have enough time! It angers me to see people around me doing things I enjoy and being creative while I constantly work. It is constant and with nothing more than very short periods of rest. I'm in need to focus my wants to a manageable size. So I decided to leave this comment and say maybe you could talk about how you prioritize task in projects and day to day. I have decided how I want to handle my list. It is always interesting to hear how others task manage. I'm sure many others have things to share too.
(ID #427538) Posted on 2008/12/28 15:02
CEO MIrai Inc
Will do. But you are the only one who can prioritize whats important in your life.
(ID #427542) Posted on 2008/12/28 15:15
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
Yes, only the individual can prioritize what it important in their life. Sorry it I was vague about my point. Often I see people decide on a course of action only to fail because they can manage what to do first. They may also take on two much at once as well. Often it helps then to hear how someone else breaks a large task into smaller task. You mentioned college business classes. The IS/IT class I'm taking are taught in the business college where I am attending. I'm surprised at how many business major can not task manage or give presentations...
(ID #427550) Posted on 2008/12/28 15:32
After reading this, I don't really know what to say because everything you have stated in this is so true... I guess one of my burning passions is to get out of America. I don't really mean to be rude, but I personally don't enjoy living in America, at all. I have even constructed a list of the most ideal places for me to live and enjoy my life, and America has never crossed me mind. Perhaps it's just the fact that I have been stuck in here for half my life, and the other half being stuck in Canada (which I will say is pretty awesome). Well, I really need to start thinking about my future and what I can do right now. Recently, I've been learning guitar, but I should probably add Japanese onto my list of things that I'm learning. Japan has really been an interesting country from way back when I can remember, so I'll try me best to keep that option open. Oh yeah, you take some really nice pictures Danny! They're always so pretty. :D
(ID #427556) Posted on 2008/12/28 15:51
As always a great inspiration article i really do love the life articles i'll admit its actually your articles that pushed me to try to get were i want in life instead of making up excuses that i'm too busy or that it can wait till later in life, i've learned now that if you really want something you have to work your damm hardest to get it no excuses that you have little time if you have got enough time to moan about having no time then you really do have time (if that makes sense :D ) About a year ago i was content with just moaching about biding my time complaining why i can't get anywere instead of actually putting the effort in, so then after a short time of reading one of your old articles i quit my old job (that i'd been at for years depressed as hell) got a new job that is advancing me at a much faster pace and have put loads of energy into learning Japanese many hours a day no more excuses of "oh i'm tired" or "oh i need a rest today or i might burn out" what a load of bull it was just me making up excuses. So you can see Danny how motivational your articles are to some people so i can't thank you enough.
(ID #427661) Posted on 2008/12/28 19:05
Mechanical Engineering student
First of all I love the pictures! I like pictures of cities and buildings, especially tall ones XP That's a pretty nice lecture Mr Danny. What I can say is that my current obstacle in my life is a giant wall called procrastination. I gotta do something about it because it's affecting both my studies AND my hobbies XD I'm not really sure if I picked the right course in college. I picked Mechanical Engineering because if I graduate I'll get a high-paying job. I may like tinkering with machines but I really can't imagine myself as an engineer. Well I can't shift courses now though because I made a promise to my parents and myself that I'll finish this course. I would always say "Kung ano ang sinimulan ko, tatapusin ko" or "What I started, I'll finish it."
(ID #427722) Posted on 2008/12/28 20:46
Photographer, writer, blogger
As ever brilliant, concise, simple, honest and heart-warming writing from someone who sounds like they have a generous and open heart. It's always nice to pop by you rsite Danny, you deserve your ludicrous number of hits per day. These photos are also stunning and some of them look like HDR. Was there a great deal of adjustment necessary on photoshop/aperture/lightroom to get the above effects? Andy Heather
(ID #427771) Posted on 2008/12/28 22:51
As some of you noticed, the article is simple but so true. I'm of a similar opinion, however saying "do anything and it will be fine" is not enough imo. I've already graduated from skool and I have really hard times deciding upon my future. On one hand I'm very eager to move to Japan but on the other hand I don't really know what to do upon the arrival. What jobs are needed over there, am I good enough to find a job as an inexperienced freshman? And another aspect worth considering is one's salary. Sure, most of us are able to find a job but is it going to be enough to live a decent life in Japan? Yes i know... somehow I feel like I'm just making excuses......
(ID #427820) Posted on 2008/12/29 00:41
Sigh... Passion and commitment are a few things I wish I had more quantities of... Next year is a new year. Even if it's one step at a time, I'll make something of myself.
(ID #427815) Posted on 2008/12/29 00:30
aspiring to become a doujin and graphics artist cum lawyer
haha christmas junk is still around the house probably till new year. but wow, I envy your christmas decor. the lighted trees are beautiful
(ID #427870) Posted on 2008/12/29 01:50
uncreative (Registered on 2008/08/16 01:50)
It's my philosophy that the strongest motivation comes from yourself, not from others.
(ID #427985) Posted on 2008/12/29 05:06
Christmas decorations are really beautiful.
(ID #428010) Posted on 2008/12/29 06:22
College Student (Pre-Dental)
I've been checking out your site for a couple of months now, and I decided to join. I really appreciate your words of wisdom that you shared with this community. Thanks a bunch!!! "Fortune Favors the Bold" - Aristotle
(ID #428086) Posted on 2008/12/29 08:28
thanks for the words of wisom~
(ID #428144) Posted on 2008/12/29 10:23
Thanks Danny, this really motivated me alot. Those are some nice pics too.
(ID #428314) Posted on 2008/12/29 15:42
Sounds a lot like the situation I'm in right now. Hope I make it in the end like how you turned out. Question: I'm a 1st yr Comp. Eng. student at the local Uni. I did badly for my first sem. I only have slight interest in my course but I know there are lots of opportunity in the IT industry if I finish this course well. At the same time, I am very into anything Japanese. Culture, the country, drama, anime, music, everything. I'm a Japanophile. Japan is my passion. So do I drag myself through the 4 more yrs of Uni or...?
(ID #428328) Posted on 2008/12/29 16:04
student
ah i shouldve went to roppongi hills for x-mas.... I just walked around the streets of Tokyo lol.
(ID #428385) Posted on 2008/12/29 18:29
Brilliant post Danny. I think it's an inspiration to us all. And Roppongi Hills looks great. I'll put Christmas in Roppongi on my list to do in the future!
(ID #428388) Posted on 2008/12/29 18:41
Thanks... Closing web browser to go do "something" now.
(ID #428449) Posted on 2008/12/29 21:12
Student, Bioresearch Assistant, WAVE VP Communications
I'm thinking of becoming a surgeon because I enjoy making models and such. Problem is, I need to get into med school, which is what pretty much everyone wants. That's my problem right now >.<
(ID #428838) Posted on 2008/12/30 04:51
Random Worker/Haruhiist
Whew that was a damn good article
(ID #428849) Posted on 2008/12/30 05:00
Anime Figure Collector
So pretty.
(ID #429112) Posted on 2008/12/30 10:14
Hum, ya know, I'm sorta in a rut that I really should get out of. I really need to do something.
(ID #429615) Posted on 2008/12/30 18:10
Great pics. Were all glad that you finally found your calling in life-because we now have DC.com
(ID #430154) Posted on 2008/12/31 06:33
wow.. very motivating.. it's like everything you said is very good for the soul.. I'll remember this.. thanks..
(ID #430750) Posted on 2008/12/31 18:08
Ladies you could have been wearing "danny-choo shoes"...gedit? I am lucky i figured out what i wanted to do at an early age. Now i am fighting to realise that dream. Thanks Dan.
(ID #433260) Posted on 2009/01/03 01:50
Part trooper, part -timer, 100% loser...
Been a ahile since the last motivational post, or maybe I've been missing too much on DC.com^^;... Anyway, like always, your motivational articles always give me a wake-up call and makes me remember what I want and need to do in life!
(ID #433631) Posted on 2009/01/03 10:19
Makes me ponder whether I should pick up Japanese language again. I've done considerably well given certain circumstances but suddenly dropped it because while my language was understandable, I often got lost in translation while talking to Japanese people on the internet. These small cases often lead to inconvenience and eventually resulted in me having a negative impression of Japanese people as a whole. 98% of the people I met online were about the same age as my parents, so I could be getting the wrong impression. I had a few short-term pen friends at my age in the past, but they'd magically disappear one day although we were cool.
(ID #434056) Posted on 2009/01/03 19:21
I'm jealous! Jealous I say! When I went on a trip to Japan Roppongi is one area I missed out on and just didn't have time for. Ah well there's always next time!
(ID #437693) Posted on 2009/01/06 18:46
That was one magnificent article!
(ID #437948) Posted on 2009/01/06 23:52
Actor, Moviemaker and Blogger.
Thank you very much for this article! :)
(ID #438034) Posted on 2009/01/07 01:48
Me and some buddies are planning to go here sometime in our lives XD
(ID #439586) Posted on 2009/01/08 06:59
I understand what you mean, going through the same stage here ^^;
(ID #439736) Posted on 2009/01/08 09:40
Student/Part-time Philosopher/Building a blog
Brilliant! You sound like my father at certain points. So i figure it isn't just he being demanding because of his own selfish reasons. Thinks it's time to leave this comfort zone i am in and actually do something to get me somewhere. If you want to go to "Success - Dreams - Expectations", then you have to pick the road that will lead you there. If you don't know where you want to go, then you will go nowhere.
(ID #452111) Posted on 2009/01/18 02:33
i doubt i would ever even live in asia, let alone japan. vacation???? LMAO nice story
(ID #508156) Posted on 2009/03/04 12:27
general contractor- remodeling
Thanks for the insight Danny! Good motivation for us.
(ID #559095) Posted on 2009/04/12 04:41
Otaku Programmer/Gamer/Artist/Photographer
Awesome pics! ^__^ The lights make everything fantastic!!! I WANT TO GO THERE!! =3
(ID #577810) Posted on 2009/04/25 06:48
Thanks for your insights Danny. I've just recently gotten into reading these posts, and they've really helped me piece together what i wanna do in the future. Once im done my physiology phD stuff, i want to move out to japan, and maybe get a research/university job. I'm also a big anime/manga otaku - and that's kinda what started my japanese interest. Just once again, thanks for proving to us, we can make anything possible. cheers!
(ID #634727) Posted on 2009/06/05 15:59
So pretty!
(ID #659970) Posted on 2009/06/29 03:49
A stock of photos taken by night that were being back logged so this arti...(more)
Mon 01/05 15:09 comments (131)
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Wed 01/02 23:45 comments (45)
This is the first time I've seen something like this - body inflation where some sort of liquid is i...(more)
Sun 07/05 07:23 comments (85)
In a meeting at Ebisu earlier on this week - everybody has an iPhone ^^;
And a closer look at that ...(more)
Sat 07/04 23:07 comments (59)
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