Introduction
Many fish swim continuously throughout their lives. Especially, fish like sharks and tuna take in oxygen by swimming, maintaining the activities necessary for survival. These fish, which possess this habit, survive by always moving forward.
So, do we need to keep swimming continuously in our lives like fish? Of course, when we talk about "continuously swimming," it doesn't just mean physical movement. It refers to constantly moving forward in the direction we should take in life.
For example, dedicating ourselves to work for career advancement or achieving self-growth through studying can be seen as steps forward in life. One reason migratory fish keep swimming is the pursuit of possibilities. They constantly search for new waters and new food sources, always moving forward. The sight of migratory fish freely swimming in the vast ocean symbolizes infinite possibilities. They seek new adventures and explore unknown worlds, expanding their limits. This attitude also applies to us pursuing our own possibilities.
The "Lying Flat" Movement in China
However, continuously "swimming" isn't always a good thing. Constantly moving forward without rest can lead to mental and physical exhaustion. "Moving forward" often means engaging in intense competition and battles. Just as fish swim against the waves, we face difficulties as we strive to progress.
Recently, in China, there has been an increase in young people who distance themselves from excessive competition and pressure, prioritizing time with themselves and their families over a life driven by work. These individuals are part of a movement known as the "lying flat" movement (躺平主義). In recent years, rapid economic growth in China has intensified competition, causing many young people to feel immense pressure. In urban areas, high living costs, demanding educational environments, fierce job competition, and long working hours have led to burnout and mental fatigue. As a result, some young people choose to live life at their own pace, distancing themselves from excessive competition and embracing a lifestyle of "lying flat."
Specifically, this lifestyle involves earning just enough to get by (some even live off savings or family support without working at all), not buying homes or cars, avoiding romantic relationships, marriage, and having children, and maintaining low levels of consumption.
Some people view this as a form of "giving up", criticizing it as a destructive and lazy way of life. However, this approach of distancing oneself from excessive pressure and competition, and pursuing a simple, low-stress lifestyle, can preserve mental health, create time to focus on what truly matters, and allow individuals to concentrate on what is genuinely important to them as human beings.
On the other hand, there are concerns about the impact of this lifestyle on overall societal productivity and economic growth. If the "lying flat" lifestyle becomes widespread, it could lead to a shortage of labor and economic stagnation. Additionally, spending one's youth without working hard could result in missed opportunities for personal growth and future career advancement, posing a risk of irreparable consequences. Furthermore, choosing this lifestyle could lead to lower economic stability and increase future uncertainties.
It's All Up to YOU
There are two main reasons I wrote this article. First, it’s a bit personal, but over the past few years, I’ve been under immense pressure while tackling various tasks, trying to push myself forward. In doing so, I began to feel like a fish that must keep swimming out of instinct, as if I had no choice in the matter. It felt like I was moving not out of my own will, but as a biological imperative.
Second, when I knew about China’s “lying flat” movement through the news media, it struck me and made me wonder if there’s something I’m missing in my current way of living.
I don’t believe that our lives need to be spent continuously swimming like fish. Some migratory fish, such as tuna, may die if they stop moving because they can’t breathe, but we have the ability to stop and rest, just like the young people in China’s “lying flat” movement.
However... I also don’t think we should completely stop "swimming" like fish. Because, swimming is fun, isn't it? At least for me, swimming is fun. So, as long as I can find a enjoyment in "swimming", I think it’s better to keep going until I’m completely exhausted. I plan to enjoy swimming while taking occasional breaks.
Conclusion
I usually write articles about tech topics, work techniques, and productivity, but today I decided to try something a bit experimental. Sorry if it turned out a bit disjointed!
In our lives, constantly moving forward is important, but it’s not the only way to live. It’s also important to move at your own pace, taking breaks when needed. While enjoying the act of swimming like a fish, don’t forget to stop and rest occasionally to find your own balance.
Thank you for reading, take care!
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