Nankurunaisa: A Gentle Guide for Your Transformation Journey

I have recently written a few blogs about different Japanese concepts that I believe are very important in a Transformational Coaching journey: Kintsugi, Ikigai and Wabi-Sabi. Today I want to share my thoughts through a final blog in this series focused on Nankurunaisa.

In a world addicted to speed, optimisation and results, we often forget that deep, lasting transformation rarely follows a straight or hurried path. This is where the phrase Nankurunaisa (なんくるないさ) offers a refreshing perspective — and a powerful principle for Transformational Coaching.

What is Nankurunaisa?

Originating from Okinawan culture – Japan’s southernmost islands known for longevity and resilience – Nankurunaisa roughly translates to:

“Let things unfold in time” or “Don’t rush; everything will be okay if you take it slow and live in harmony.”

It carries the nuance of trusting the process, practicing patience and allowing life to take its natural course, even during times of challenge or uncertainty. It's not passive resignation – it's mindful surrender to a deeper rhythm. Nankurunaisa emphasises harmony, respect and a balanced way of life that is prevalent among the Okinawan population.

How to Use Nankurunaisa in Your Personal Transformation

Nankurunaisa is more than just a phrase, it’s a mindset — one that can help you navigate uncertainty, slow down without guilt and trust that meaningful change takes time. Here’s how you can apply this principle to your own life and growth – especially if you're in the middle of a transition:

1. Let Yourself Evolve at Your Own Pace

You may feel pressure to make decisions quickly or reinvent yourself overnight. But real transformation isn’t instant. It unfolds gradually — like a sunrise, not a light switch.

🌀 Try this: Ask yourself, “What small step feels right for me today?”, not “What should I have figured out already?”

2. Be Okay With Not Knowing Everything Yet

It’s normal to feel uncertain when you’re at a crossroads. You don’t need to have all the answers right now. Often, clarity comes after you take the first few steps — not before.

🌀 Try this: Instead of focusing on “the big picture”, tune into what feels aligned this week or this month. Trust that the rest will reveal itself with time.

3. Choose Gentle Progress Over Harsh Pressure

You don’t need to hustle your way through transformation. Small, consistent, values-based actions are just as powerful as bold leaps.

🌀 Try this: Let go of timelines that make you feel anxious. Focus on consistency, not intensity. Change that lasts is change that’s sustainable.

4. Know That You're Not Falling Behind

Transformation doesn’t come with a stopwatch. You're not late. You're not broken. You’re not “behind.” You're simply on your path — and that’s exactly where you're supposed to be.

🌀 Try this: When doubt creeps in, say to yourself: “Nankurunaisa — it will be okay, just keep going.”

You Don’t Have to Push to Grow

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is slow down, breathe and trust that you're still moving — even when things feel quiet or unclear.

You are allowed to:

• Take your time

• Feel unsure

• Start again

• Change your mind

• Grow gently

This is your journey. Let it unfold with kindness and curiosity – not urgency.

Final Word

Nankurunaisa is a reminder that your transformation doesn’t have to be rushed. It’s okay to soften, to trust and to let things unfold in their own time. In Okinawan philosophy, Nankurunaisa isn’t just a saying — it’s a way of life. For coaches and clients alike, it reminds us that meaningful change is a process, not a performance.

So the next time you're tempted to panic or push yourself to “fix” everything, pause and remember:

“I’m doing my best. I’m becoming.

Nankurunaisa — it will all be okay, in time.”

#Nankurunaisa #GentleTransitions #CareerTransitions #MRAconsulting #TheChangeMakers