So let me introduce myself. I'm your futsu (run-of-the-mill), heikin (average) salaryman, nothing special. What's wrong with that? I can remember a time when this particular jiko-shokai (self-introduction) at company functions and karaoke parties was perfectly acceptable -- even welcomed.

Then, it indicated a combination of inner confidence and modesty. Now, of course, combining the word "heikin" with the word "salaryman" immediately translates into dasai (uncool), nasakenai (clueless) and oyaji (middle-aged guy). This is unfair. In my younger years, we were taught to keep our heads down, that deru kugi wa utareru (the nail that sticks out gets hammered down).

Now the norm is to stick way out, and it is believed that the more hitting you get, the stronger you become. They call it utarezuyoi (able to take blows). Who do they think we are, Bruce Willis? Plus, we're expected to be surudoi (scintillating), omoshiroi (interesting) and dokusoteki (individualist). Lately, the company distributed a manual on how to develop these three traits, and it's mandatory reading. My own feeling on this is: "Kanben shiteyo (Give me a break)."