You may think that you have depression subjectively. If you have a severe depression, I don’t think you can hold a microphone and speak. Honestly speaking, you are not depressed when you can speak in the audience. Even though your doctor might have said that you have depression, in the general remarks, you might have a mania but not depression since you are speaking in front of the audience and asking me a question while it is broadcasting via satellite relay.

As for company management, there are many companies that are not doing so well, so it is not a special case at all. Today, more than ten thousand companies would go bankrupt each year (at the time of this lecture). It is natural that CEOs of such companies have some kind of ailments such as depression, illness and extreme mental distress. It is not unusual, and it happens with a certain probability.

Of course, the government has the responsibility to improve the economy, which has been in a slump for 20 years. I think the political responsibility for this is great. If we only have a government like this, it is possible that the backlash will spread misfortune among the people.

The Ways to Survive Are “a High Added Value” and “Strengthening Sales Capabilities”

I believe the essence of your question actually falls under rather specific consulting matters. Although it is somewhat difficult to say, I think we can probably reach a conclusion without taking too much time.

Anyone who runs a business must make firm decisions about when to step forward and when to step back. Those who cannot make such decisions should not be at the top. Regardless of whether the business is large or small, a leader mush think for themselves. If they decide, “it’s tough, but I’ll push through,” then they must have the willpower to overcome challenges by any means necessary.

There are basically only two ways to break through.

One way is to offer high-quality products or services that other companies do not have and survive and grow within that “high added value” space. This means sustaining the business through the quality and strong reputation of your products or services.

The other is, of course, sales. In time of recession, strong sales efforts are crucial. Everyone, from the top down, must come together and focus on sales, making sure to put in consistent effort rather than cutting corners as they may have in the past.

These are the two fundamental strategies. The foundation for recovery is built on these two approaches.

And especially for those at the top must think about “how to make money” – although it may sound very vulgar. They must constantly think about “how to make a living.” It is important to keep thinking, day and night, about the next move, and the one after that – continuously coming up with new ideas. If they don’t do that, the people following them will inevitably face very difficult circumstances. I believe that responsibility comes with the position.

The Decision to Advance or Withdraw Is the Leader’s Responsibility

If the circumstance requires a withdrawal, then it is important to minimize the damage and ensure that those connected to the company experiences as little inconvenience as possible. In such cases, restructuring and restarting the business in an orderly manner could be one viable option.

In reality, given the current situation where tens of thousands of companies are going under, company management is not easy. Depending on the industry, it may be especially difficult to continue operating.

For subcontractor-type companies, if the parent company falters, there may be no way to keep the business afloat.

Because of these realities, if it becomes clear that “withdrawal is inevitable,” then making that decision is also one of the qualities of a good leader. If you determine that continuing is impossible, then withdrawing is a valid choice.

Some people shut down their companies and become salaried employees. Others, after working as employees, come up with new business ideas and start over.

Ultimately, deciding on the company’s direction – including your own personal career decisions – is a leader’s responsibility.

That’s why you have to make the call yourself. That’s what it means to be a man.

You say you’re depressed, but depression is just a form of escape. By calling depression, you’re avoiding having to think about it. Your depression doesn’t matter. Set it aside for a moment and make a rational decision.

Strive Hard to Look at Things From Your Customers’ Perspectives

In the current (economic) situation, we can’t save every single company nor make every single company grow.

Especially, the head of the Japanese government is currently in a state of being haunted by a poverty god (at the time of this lecture), there is no doubt that the future looks extremely grim. I feel the urgency that I must provide guidance on the management aspects so that Happy Science companies can survive and prosper.

The whole world is under a spell of poverty god. I hope that we can somehow overcome this situation. First, we need to have a “spirit of self-help,” that is, to make as many paths as you can forge for yourself and strive to be creative and inventive.

I believe that revisiting the teachings of Ninomiya Sontoku – focusing on diligence, frugality, and perseverance – can inspire individuals to restart and rebuild their businesses. His philosophy serves as a valuable model applicable to various situations.

In time of economic downturn, prioritize creating something with high added value. Additionally, always remember to approach your business not from your self-centered view but from your customer’s perspective. It is essential to see things through their eyes and strive to meet their needs.

The Power of Perseverance Is the Greatest Path to Success

I shouldn’t go into further detail as it would be too personal, but please don’t escape into depression. Don’t let yourself fall into it. Instead, think of this as something that depends on your “will,” “determination,” and “ability to take action.”

Life offers countless chances to rise again, so enduring is also important. “Perseverance” is a path to success. I believe that having the strength to endure is truly the greatest key to success. Those who lack perseverance will struggle to succeed in anything they attempt. The ability to hold on is an incredibly powerful force.

As you persevere, you will naturally begin to radiate light. Please keep that in mind. This applies to studying as well as work. Perseverance and self-discipline are extremely important.

Without overthinking unnecessary matters, I encourage you to focus all your attention on a single point – on management – and make sound, correct decisions.

No matter how you go about your life in the future, Happy Science will never abandon you! We will never abandon you, and we intend to continue to support you in various ways, so please do your best.