Working holiday in New Zealand

 I wrote down some sentences I could not catch while listening to certain podcasts. Can tourism ever really be eco-friendly? Or is the very act of getting on a plane, staying at a resort or hotel and taking selfies in pristine places, fundamentally at odds with sustainability? What does that look like in practice? It’s typically something small-scale, locally run, and not exploitative. Can you give me some examples of projects that are genuinely set up to be as sustainable as possible? We can talk a lot about greenwashing, where companies and lodges are pretending to be greener than they actually are. What happened was that many poachers and illegal gold miners moved away from that industry, where deforestation often occurs alongside those activities. Reference:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4oGG5oIng4&t=250s

Last night, I received an email regarding the selection results from the organization I had an interview with last Monday. Unfortunately, I wasn’t selected to move forward to the next round. Of course, I was shocked. But I know this doesn’t mean my attitude or skills were rejected—it simply didn’t align with what they were looking for.

 I wrote down some sentence I struggled to shadow smoothly. I could see the alpha waves becoming more spaced out and sort of less frequent as I was sort of drifting off. I'd suddenly jolt back awake and the alpha waves would be back. When you're sort of dreaming and your eyes are darting all over the place, and we  sort of cycle through those stages about once every 90 minutes. We don't sort of necessarily go through them one after the other. Do we know what happens to the body then? Does it go into certain stage? It might be that you end up sort of getting yanked out of sleep. As well as getting enough sleep, it's great if you can wake up at the right point in your sleep cycle. You know, when your alarm goes off and it feels really jarring. That can be avoided if you van sync up with your sleep cycle. You can do that by getting up at roughly the same time every day. Try and take those things somewhere else and save the bedroom. My caffeinated pods were sat where my dec...

I wrote down some sentences I struggled to shadow smoothly. Were you out like a light as soon as your head hit the pillow? I feel like I can pretty much lie my head down anywhere. Can you fall asleep on a train? That's what I'm always really jealous of. There are thousands of different genes which influence how easily we do or don't fall asleep. It's also down to our mental health. They're synchronized with when it's light and dark outside. We know sleep is important for our immune system, so if you don't get it, you may not be able to throw off those pesky colds. I sort of had a cap with electrodes attached to the skin on my scalp to monitor my brain as I was falling asleep. They're looking for alpha waves, which are a sign that you're conscious and aware. It can sort of tell you at what stage of sleep you are. Reference:  How to get your best night’s sleep - What in the World podcast, BBC World Service

I discussed our plans after returning to Japan with my wife last night. Since she worked from home yesterday, she was able to set aside enough time after work for the conversation. While it’s ideal to talk in person about serious matters, we feel it’s important to share our thoughts before my working holiday ends. We sometimes experience tension due to our different personalities, but it’s never emotionally charged. We don’t argue—we simply focus on understanding each other. I deeply appreciate her attitude.

Last night, I had an interview with a Japanese organization that supports children's financial and mental well-being. The interviewer asked me many questions I hadn’t anticipated, so at times I couldn’t respond quickly and simply said I didn’t have any ideas at the moment. Still, I was able to express my thoughts and plans. I left nothing behind in that interview—I did everything I could to prepare. Now, I’ll just wait for the result.

I learned new rugby related vocabulary while listening to live commentary of a rugby international match. Just over 10 minutes remaining until halftime. He kicked and chased by himself. After a series of strong carries, they regained territory and put pressure on the opposition. They lost their discipline and gave away too many penalties. Momentum's shifted big time. They're giving away cheap balls. That maul's going nowhere. They need to tighten up their defence. He slips the tackle and breaks through the line.

Tomorrow, I have an interview with a Japanese organization I applied to two weeks ago. I've been reevaluating my strengths through past experiences, including serving as a clinical research associate at a pharmaceutical company, planning and operating international exchange programs at an international cooperation centre, and working as a customer service staff member at an automotive shop. Last night, I reorganized my notes and consolidated my thoughts into one document. I've done everything I could. Now, I’ll simply express my ideas.

Minimalism helps curb the urge to overbuy. It‘s such a relief to focus on essentials and have a clear, clutter-free space. Minimalism can mean striking the right balance. If minimalism is too strict, it might not suit emergencies or various lifestyles. It’s all about finding what‘s right for you. Minimalism could leave you unprepared for emergencies if taken to the extreme. Balance is key, so you're not left in a bind.

I have recently listened to one of the BBC World Service's content pieces. Today, I was watching the video below before going to work. Some people can lie their head down anywhere and they'll fall asleep. However, it is hard for those who have concerns about their life or something. Some research data shows that if you felt unsafe or were neglected as a child, you can become wired to be super alert, which is a really useful adaptation if you’re growing up in an unsafe environment. However, when we are older, it just makes us tired. Reference:  How to get your best night’s sleep - What in the World podcast, BBC World Service

I usually talk to myself while walking from the nearest bus stop to my workplace. What I speak about is scenery, my plan, my emotional state, my job and so on. I think it does not matter which topic I should speak about. Keeping talking and trying to form long, detailed sentences. I can improve my speaking skills while relaxing.

The item was found to be damaged during shipping, according to the customer's claim. We kindly request compensation for the damage. Please note that we wrapped the item securely with plenty of bubble wrap before the courier arrived to collect it. We believe the damage may have resulted from mishandling during transit. <My Past Articles Related to Customer Service> I will review my past articles and keep practicing every day. Day 166 Phrases in Customer Service (1) Day 168 Phrases in Customer Service (2) Day 169 Phrases in Customer Service (3) Day 175 Phrases in Customer Service (4) Day 174 Inquiries from Customers Day 178 Phrases in Customer Service (5) Day 199 Phrases in Customer Service (6) Day 203 Phrases in Customer Service (7) Day 204 Phrases in Customer Service (8) Day 220 Phrases in Customer Service (9) Day 255 Phrases in Customer Service (10)

I want to build a foundation that gives all children equal access to future opportunities. People often focus on financial inequality, but emotional well-being is just as important. Even when kids have food, shelter, and a place to sleep, they might still be suffering—especially if they’re facing neglect or violence at home or school. These kinds of struggles are often invisible. That’s why I believe in creating a “third place”—a safe, supportive space outside of home and school where children can feel protected and valued. It’s also crucial to make sure they have access to the right information, so they’re not left behind simply because of their circumstances.

Yesterday, I went to the top of Mount Eden during the heavy rain. There was nothing visible there, and the strong window made me feel so cold. The only good thing was that I could exercise. I do not recommend anyone visit there during the terrible weather.

The Wallabies won the first game against the Springboks in the Rugby Championship 2025 this morning. I thought the Wallabies would lose it since they conceded more than 20 points for the first 20 minutes in the game. However, they came back as if they were a completely different team and consequently won it.  I want to pick up some phrases to use when watching rugby with locals. Just over 10 minutes remaining until halftime. After a series of strong carries, they regained territory and put pressure on the opposition. They lost their discipline and gave away too many penalties. Momentum’s shifted big time. They need to tighten up their defense. They’re giving away cheap ball. That maul’s going nowhere.

August is the last month of the winter season, meaning spring is just around the corner. I participated in a Meetup event last night and met new people there. One of them is a high school student who came here to study abroad for one year. Although there is more than 10 years of gap between him and me, I was stimulated by his attitude toward studying English, rather than looking down on him. 

I have been creating a manual for the next person who will take over my role. Not only could I deepen my understanding of the car industry, but I could also acquire the skill of reorganizing our inventory, documents, and emails. At the beginning of my work, I was confused by the situation, which was messy with many things. I did as many things as possible by leveraging my former work experiences.

Today, I received several complex inquiries from customers regarding part compatibility with their vehicles. I first tried to resolve their questions independently, exploring possible solutions on my own. Although I wasn’t able to find definitive answers in the end, the process taught me new technical knowledge and deepened my understanding.

I recently submitted my CV and career summary to a Japanese organization I’ve long been interested in. According to their official website, they tend to prefer candidates who have followed a more traditional career path—rather than taking time for a working holiday. Still, I decided to apply anyway, because I believe in the value of the experiences I’ve gained. Of course, I’m fully prepared for any outcome. Regardless of the result, I see this as an opportunity to express my story and take a step forward.

As my working holiday in New Zealand enters its final three months, I’ve begun searching for job opportunities in Japan. Over the past months, I’ve encountered a wide range of situations and connected with people from diverse backgrounds, each offering unique perspectives. These experiences have helped me grow both personally and professionally. To prepare for the next step, I’ve put together a summary of my career and the insights I’ve gained during my time abroad. I plan to submit this to companies where I can pursue work that aligns with my values and aspirations.

As I wrote in the title, I have decided when I will return to Japan. I have been thinking about this matter for the past month. Of course, I am still concerned about whether I can truly get a new job in Japan. However, I could make what I want to try clear through communication with my former colleagues and boss. I appreciate their advice and help. My career may not be straightforward, but it does not mean a waste of time.

I joined a running community for the first time in a long time. The number of people who know me has been declining since my friends have gradually returned to their home counties. However, I can relax while running with other participants.

I have finally recovered from being unwell, thanks to focusing on taking a rest and getting nutritious meals. Additionally, I have adjusted my daily routine. Anyway, I am very happy.

I have not been willing to talk with anyone recently due to fatigue. I cannot release exhaustion even if I fall asleep early. I suppose overthinking about my future plans and current concerns is one of the causes. I will secure private time this weekend.

Last night, I avoided using my smartphone before bed—a habit I’ve tried many times before—because I know how much it improves my sleep. And this morning, my mind felt remarkably clear. Lately, I’ve been preoccupied with thoughts about my future, which has led me to browse on my phone even just before sleeping. This experience reminded me how much digital devices can interfere with sleep quality.

I participated in an online English conversation event, which was one of the Meetup Events. It was my first time joining that group. However, I never felt nervous since I had already got used to diving into something new here in New Zealand. The organizer gave us some new phrases and tips before starting a conversation. Thanks to his clear explanation, I could absorb new vocabulary. I will keep joining it when I have time. I matched him emotionally since I have been there so far. The computer might be vulnerable because it doesn’t have any security software. He gave me  directions  to his  house , but I  found  them  bewildering. Let's just  walk  through the  scene  one more  time . Most customer complaints fall into three buckets. I felt outraged on his behavior since he screamed suddenly.

I have recently felt like god told me to take a rest anyway since I had pain on my back and my emotional state was down. Due to consecutive cool weather, it is hard to move my arms and legs. That is why I will focus on warming up my body first.

I did not do anything this weekend since I felt exhausted. Perhaps I slept for a total of 20 hours over 2 days. I realized the importance of doing nothing for refreshing my body and mental health. I could spend a meaningful time anyway.

A bunch of car parts had arrived. Therefore, I have been registering them on our website. I am responsible for checking their condition and setting the price. Although they may seem like simple tasks, I do not feel like they are boring ones. This is because I can expand my horizon and get more knowledge about car industry.