How Oshikatsu Helped Me Reclaim My Dreams
Recently, the word “oshikatsu” has become popular in Japan. Oshikatsu means supporting your favorite idol, actor, anime character, or creative work. For many people, it is just a hobby. But for me, it has become a source of strength in my daily life. I often feel tired the moment I wake up, before the day has even begun. But thinking about my oshi reminds me to do my best today. In this column, I want to share what oshikatsu means to Japanese people, through my own experience.
Oshikatsu encourages me because I once gave up on my own dreams. When I am busy, I sometimes ask myself, “What did I really want to do?” When I was a child, I loved the movie Indiana Jones. I wanted to study archaeology. But as I grew older, I started to think that only a few people could actually make a living as an archaeologist. So I chose a stable path and ended up in a job far removed from the dream I once had. Choosing safety over dreams felt natural, but I still have a small regret. That is why I want to support people who keep chasing their dreams. That is what oshikatsu means to me.
One of my favorites is Ikeda Teresa from Nogizaka46. Nogizaka46 is one of the most popular female idol groups in Japan. She took the entrance exam for a very competitive art university and failed. But she did not give up. But she did not give up. She continued studying while working as an idol and eventually passed the exam. Later, she was chosen as the “center,” the main position in the group. When I heard the news, I felt proud, as if it were my own success. I am busy with work, housework, and raising children. Even when I wanted to study English, I often thought, “I can’t do it now,” and gave up. Seeing her dedication made me think, “Maybe I can start something myself.”
For me, oshikatsu means supporting someone and giving myself courage. When I watch my favorite person, I think, “I want to learn too” or “I want to start something.” If you feel lost in your busy life, try supporting someone. That feeling may become the first step toward trying.
