Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, is not just about restoring an object to its original form but transforming it into something even more beautiful and unique.
In a world that often chases perfection, the Japanese art of Kintsugi, or “golden joinery” offers a refreshing perspective.
The word “Kintsugi” translates to “golden joinery” (金継ぎ). This practice reflects a deep philosophical approach to imperfection and resilience. Far beyond its aesthetic appeal, Kintsugi offers powerful lessons for life and can teach us how to embrace our own flaws and setbacks, transforming them into sources of strength and beauty.
The Philosophy Behind Kintsugi
The philosophy behind Kintsugi stems from the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and transience. In the case of Kintsugi, rather than hiding the cracks and breaks of an object, they are highlighted and celebrated. The golden seams of the repair work are intentionally visible. The historical damage is uniquely repaired, displaying the added beauty, value, and character.
This practice challenges the Western notion of perfection, where brokenness often leads to disposal or devaluation. In Kintsugi, brokenness is seen as part of an object’s life, and its mended state, marked by gold, makes it even more unique. This reflects the impermanence of all things. Embrace the idea that life’s challenges and scars can enhance our beauty and wisdom rather than diminish it.
Embracing Challenges
When faced with setbacks or failures, instead of dwelling on the negative, we can view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Just as the golden seams highlight the beauty of a repaired vase, the difficulties we experience add to the richness of our life story.
I was cut at the final stage of representing Great Britain in the European Championships. I was crushed, but it was the best thing that could have happened. I became independent in my development and made significant improvements. A year went by, and not only did I make the team, but I was also an integral part of it and the success we had competing against other nations.
If I hadn’t been get cut, I wouldn’t have had the hunger to get better. The broken pieces that shattered from the day I was cut were molded together, contributing to my unique path to becoming a professional athlete.
Finding Strength in Adversity
The cracks in pottery, once filled with gold, create new pathways and contours, making the object even more valuable. Similarly, the challenges we face in life can shape us into more resilient, wise, and compassionate individuals. Rather than seeing failure or hardship as something to regret, we can view it as an opportunity to grow, learn, and improve.
Celebrating Uniqueness:
Just as no two pieces of pottery are identical, no two people are the same. Our experiences, flaws, and stories are what make us who we are. Kintsugi encourages us to accept our true selves—cracks, scars, and all. Self-acceptance doesn’t mean resigning ourselves to our imperfections but recognizing that we are whole even with our broken parts.
Forgiving Ourselves
We all make mistakes. Kintsugi teaches us to forgive ourselves, learn from our errors, and move forward with renewed strength. When we view ourselves with the same compassion and understanding that we would show a broken, mended object, we can learn to be kinder and more patient with ourselves.
Finding Beauty in Imperfection
In a world that often values perfection, Kintsugi reminds us to find beauty in the imperfect, in the unique, and in the stories that our imperfections tell. You may not see why particular events have aligned the way they did, but continue your journey, and eventually you’ll have an “aha” moment. Everything happens for a reason.
Applying Kintsugi to Your Life
To apply the philosophy of Kintsugi to your life, start by embracing your imperfections rather than resisting them. Here are a few practical ways to do so:
Reframe Failures: Instead of seeing failures as setbacks, look at them as learning opportunities that contribute to your personal growth.
Celebrate Your Struggles: Just as Kintsugi celebrates the cracks in pottery, celebrate the experiences that have shaped you. Your struggles have made you who you are today, and there’s beauty in that.
Focus on Growth: Like the golden seams in Kintsugi, focus on how you can grow through adversity. Use challenges as a chance to emerge stronger and wiser.
Kintsugi is not just an art form; it’s a profound life lesson. It teaches us that brokenness is not something to hide, but something to embrace. The adversities throughout my life have taken me to places and taught me lessons I’m extremely fortunate for. We’re constantly evolving. Once one issues is fix, another arises. The persistence to continue adds to your beautiful, unique, and valuable journey.
If you take away one thing from this, whenever you’re facing adversity just think, “What is this moment trying to teach me.” Shift the mindset from everything is happening to you, to everything is happening for you. By embracing life’s cracks, you can create a life that is rich, meaningful, and truly extraordinary.
Kintsugi is not just an art form; it’s a profound life lesson. It teaches us that brokenness is not something to hide, but something to embrace. The adversities throughout my life have taken me to places and taught me lessons I’m extremely fortunate for. We’re constantly evolving. Once one issues is fixed, another arises. The persistence to continue adds to your beautiful, unique, and valuable journey.
If you take away one thing from this, whenever you’re facing adversity just think, “What is this moment trying to teach me.” Shift the mindset from everything is happening to you, to everything is happening for you. By embracing life’s cracks, you can create a life that is rich, meaningful, and truly extraordinary.
