My Favorite Japanese Words that Influence How I Live & Serve

There’s a quiet poetry in certain words - the kind that make you pause, breathe a little deeper, and see life through a more intentional lens. I absolutely love learning about other cultures - and lately, I’ve been reflecting on a few beautiful Japanese words that have deeply inspired the way I live and serve.

These aren’t just words. They’re invitations. 🤍

→ To live with more care.

→ To honor beauty.

→ To offer presence over performance.

Here are my top 3 favorite Japanese words, and why they mean something special to me:

1. Omotenashi (おもてなし)

The spirit of wholehearted hospitality and service, given freely without expecting anything in return.

I recently learned about this one, from a sweet new friend at church and I immediately added it to my list! This word is often used to describe Japanese hospitality. This isn’t about entertaining or impressing. It’s about anticipating needs, serving with quiet joy, and honoring others with your full presence.

Serving from a place of sincere love - the kind that notices, anticipates, and offers… just because. Omotenashi reminds me that true hospitality isn’t performative - it’s sacred.

Omotenashi is the posture I try to bring into every circle or call I hold and every space I curate - not perfection, but presence.

2. Ikigai (生き甲斐)

A reason for being. The intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.

Ikigai is more than a career path - it’s a compass for a meaningful life. For me, it’s about living in alignment with who God created me to be… not chasing more, but stepping more deeply into true.

It’s what I want for every woman I work with: To know she has purpose. To know that her presence (even in rest) is powerful.

3. Yūgen (幽玄)

A deep, mysterious sense of the beauty of life - beyond what words can capture.

I'm sure you can relate to this one. This is the feeling of standing in awe. Of being undone by a sunset. Of sensing God’s nearness in silence.

It’s the kind of beauty that doesn’t shout.

Yūgen whispers to us in stillness: Slow down. Be here. Notice. ✨

Each of these words carries a thread of what I believe we’re all longing for: To serve from love, not obligation. To live from purpose, not pressure. To experience beauty, even in the unseen.

Which word speaks to you today? I'd love for you to reply and let me know!