​The Metaphor Of The Japanese Boxes “Himitsu-bako”

The concept of these puzzle boxes originated in the early 19th century in the Hakone region of Japan , where they were given as souvenirs to people who visited the hot springs in the area. Its creator was Ryugoro Okawa.

It is a type of box that can only be opened through a series of very precise movements. Some boxes only require sliding a few pieces into the correct place; Others require millimeter movements in each of their pieces.

You can watch a video about these boxes below:

What are Himitsu-bako boxes?

This week, the Mensalus Institute team explains the importance of understanding and respecting “difference” through the metaphor of Himitsu-Bako boxes.

What metaphor exists behind the puzzle box?

To begin with, each box is unique and therefore, its way of opening is also unique. As we mentioned, they are manufactured with different levels of complexity. For this reason, simple models only require two or three steps to open them, while more complex models require a minimum of a thousand movements.

Something similar happens with conflict resolution. Each situation is unique, regardless of its complexity, and requires a unique intervention strategy.

Every day we deal with situations that share similar processes. When there is learning and a routine, the issues we attend to and resolve are like simple little boxes. Still, every moment, every scenario, is exclusive. Likewise, throughout life we ​​also encounter complex boxes that require time and attention. The solution requires more elaborate moves and, of course, many failed tests.

In both the case of simple and complex boxes, trial and error is what determines the piece that we must slide. Solutions flow with practice and take shape through learning and patience.

Is the metaphor of boxes also applicable to people?

Of course. Each person has unique tools (resources) that allow them to connect with the world, relate to themselves and others, face adversity, etc. This set of skills is reflected in his system of thoughts and emotions. Each one of us, in each situation, will think, feel and act in a different way (we will behave like a unique puzzle box).

What does this individual difference tell us?

Understanding that each person is a box and operates as such helps us understand that there is no single reality and no single way of seeing life, at the same time it reminds us of the importance of empathizing with “the other’s box.”

Sometimes it is difficult to adapt to the other’s way of operating.

TRUE. And not only because of the difference in points of view, but also because of the difference in vital rhythms. For example, what for one is a moment of reflection or waiting, for another may be a waste of time.

Continuing with the example of vital rhythms, in teamwork, respect for “other people’s money” is a very important issue to discuss. The metaphor of the Himitsu-Bako boxes is a very graphic way of explaining that the intervention strategy will not depend solely on the objective, it will also depend on the people who participate in it and the synergies that are created when working.

This can also be extrapolated to other systems (for example, the family or couple context). The difference in rhythms when solving daily life issues can become a serious problem. When this happens, preserving an assertive communication style is one of the main challenges.

In this sense, what aspects can help when respecting other people’s rhythms?

First of all, avoid imposing our rhythm as the only valid structure. Rigid positions lead to discussions led by failed communication strategies such as “escalation” (raising the tone and aggressiveness of the speech in order to seek recognition) or omission (being silent and enduring without sharing one’s opinion).

Understanding that the other person operates from their own way of interpreting reality reveals a world to us (new points of view) and complements our vision, either through reinforcing or subtracting power from our constructs (those words that shape our discourse). and explain our values).

In times when communication is not efficient, how can the metaphor of boxes help us?

If we do not understand the box, we will hardly be able to open it (solve the puzzle). This understanding goes through the recognition of the other’s needs, the presentation of one’s own needs and the analysis of the situation from both points of view.

Remembering the metaphor of the Himitsu-bako boxes is a way of making explicit the difference that characterizes each human being, which, in turn, defines their essence (their way of thinking, feeling and acting).

Accepting the difference makes us more flexible and efficient people when resolving conflicts. Furthermore, this acceptance makes it easier for us to connect with others and helps us enjoy the appeal aroused by the exclusivity of each “box.”