This article explains why Japan’s “So‑Yu‑Wakede” meeting style leads to vague agreements and slow decisions. Rooted in relationship‑preserving culture and conflict avoidance, it contrasts with Western decision‑making. The article also shows how insufficient nemawashi and sudden HQ decisions create friction in foreign‑owned Japanese subsidiaries, highlighting the PMO’s role in bridging these gaps.

During my time studying in Birmingham, UK, I received a simple yet powerful piece of advice from my English teacher: “Don’t worry. Do something.” At the time, I was frustrated with my slow progress in listening skills. Years later, working in executive management, I realized how deeply this message applies to leadership. Many leaders spend too much time worrying about perfect plans or potential failure, but real progress comes from taking action—no matter how small. Action