We recently connected with Darin Nakakihara and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Darin, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
As a third-generation Japanese American, my resilience is deeply rooted in the cultural values imparted by my parents. My mother often emphasized the importance of gaman (我慢), a Japanese term meaning to endure the seemingly unbearable with patience and dignity. She would remind me to embody gaman, instilling in me the strength to persevere through challenges without complaint. My father reinforced these lessons, teaching me the value of hard work and silent endurance. Together, they cultivated in me a steadfast spirit, enabling me to face adversity with grace and determination. Both of my parents endured much adversity during their lives. During the second world of war, my father was incarcerated in an interment camp in Colorado and my mother was sent back to Japan, where she witnessed the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. I am forever grateful to both of them.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am currently focused on creating a meaningful impact through storytelling, advocacy, and education. As a high school teacher and content creator, my journey took a significant turn after my ALS diagnosis. This led me to establish my platform, The Die Trying Vlog, where I share my experiences navigating life with a terminal illness. My goal is to inspire others, especially those affected by ALS and their loved ones, to find joy and purpose in the face of challenges.
What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to connect with people on a deep, personal level. Sharing my story has opened doors to building a supportive and inspiring community. Through my content, I aim to foster understanding, provide practical advice, and bring positivity to those navigating similar paths. My work is rooted in authenticity, and I strive to create a space where people feel seen, heard, and encouraged.
My brand, Go Find Some Joy, encompasses my commitment to finding light in difficult circumstances. It includes my YouTube channel, Instagram, and now an Etsy shop featuring print-on-demand products designed to inspire joy and resilience.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities stand out as the most impactful: resilience, empathy, and adaptability. Resilience allowed me to face challenges head-on, whether it was navigating a terminal illness like ALS, adjusting to physical limitations, or transitioning careers. It gave me the strength to persevere and adapt. To build resilience, I recommend embracing discomfort and seeing setbacks as opportunities to grow. Start small by tackling a fear or challenge each day, and celebrate your progress along the way. Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and encourage you, as they will be an invaluable source of strength.
Empathy was another key quality that shaped my experience. It deepened my relationships and opened doors to meaningful connections, whether with family, friends, or the ALS community. Empathy reminded me that we are all in this together. To nurture empathy, practice active listening and show genuine interest in others’ stories and feelings without rushing to offer solutions. Consider joining communities or volunteering in spaces where you can connect with others’ struggles and triumphs. These experiences will expand your perspective and help you foster deeper connections.
Lastly, adaptability was crucial as life rarely goes as planned. It enabled me to shift gears, find joy in small moments, and embrace a new purpose as a content creator and advocate. To cultivate adaptability, start by developing a growth mindset and viewing challenges as opportunities to learn new skills or try different approaches. Stay curious and open to change, whether it involves adopting new technology, exploring hobbies, or rethinking your routines.
For those just starting out, my advice is to try to stay in the moment. Something will change every day and for everyone it is at a different pace. Joy will not always be obvious so sometimes we have to go seek it out. Find mentors who inspire you and learn from their journeys, and remember to celebrate every success, no matter how small. Above all, find joy and purpose in the journey, even when it takes unexpected turns. You’ve got this! 🌟
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
One significant challenge I am currently facing is living with a terminal illness, ALS, which has no cure. The disease is gradually taking away my ability to do things I once excelled at, like photography and videography. Even simple tasks, like maneuvering a mouse, typing on a keyboard, or speaking clearly on a Zoom call, have become increasingly difficult.
Despite these obstacles, I am determined to adapt and find alternative ways to pursue my goals. Through my journey, I’ve discovered a deeper purpose: inspiring others by sharing my story and my experiences through videos. I’ve chosen to embrace my disability rather than hide it, openly documenting both the struggles and moments of joy. It’s not always easy, but I believe in showing that even in the face of immense challenges, it’s possible to live with purpose and find ways to connect, create, and contribute.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gofindsomejoy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darin_nakakihara/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darinnakakihara/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT55ZacrABCuKrJrgMpT-Zw
Image Credits
Elijah Owens, Denise Nakakihara, Kendall Nakakihara
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