The Origin of "Forehead Shoes"

These shoes above bring back memories. They are the British "Hawkins ASTRONAUTS" that I wore frequently around 1985-86, during my time at Beams. In the UK, they have a cultural tradition of wearing them for hunting, and the standard style was to pair them with a Barbour jacket. There must have been a supplier in Japan at the time, and they sold very well at Beams.

After these shoes with air soles made of uncured rubber, the so-called "forehead shoes" emerged and became a huge trend.

It was an era when work safety shoes, specifically the type with steel in the toe of these air-soled shoes, were embraced as fashion, and everyone rushed to wear them.

Currently, I Mostly "Follow My Intuition"

I don't use Twitter or Facebook at all. Mr. Shirasawa at Beams uses Twitter, and I watch him, thinking it looks quite demanding (laughs).

Those who use Twitter and Facebook get information quickly, but I feel that's not my pace. I do get friend requests often, though.

I read the newspaper, primarily the economic section, as a minimum source of information. Text viewed on a computer interface doesn't register in my mind, so when I really want to read something thoroughly, I print it out.

Nowadays, I don't read any economic books at all. Since the company went public, I've mostly been following my intuition. Ultimately, intuition is better. It's best to act on what feels right.

I believe I've been given a unique mission from above, so when I get that 'feeling,' it's like receiving a directive from above. To be ready for that, one must have many drawers (knowledge) filled, but having too many drawers can sometimes be a disadvantage.

I make decisions quickly in my work, without overthinking (laughs). I'm also good at changing my mind.

When results aren't favorable, all I can do is take stock of the issues and address them one by one.

The biggest problem is the inability to identify the issues.

United Arrows Great East Japan Earthquake Charity Project

Next week (August 22nd),I will talk about"My Father and Mother."