# Oubaitori

/oʊbaɪˈtɔɹi/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/oubaitori
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

the idea that everyone grows and blooms in their own time, just like different fruit trees. It encourages you to focus on your own progress instead of comparing yourself to others.

For teachers: a Japanese philosophical concept advocating for the avoidance of social comparison by acknowledging that different individuals develop at unique rates. Derived from the kanji for cherry, apricot, peach, and plum blossoms, which bloom at different times.

## Examples

- Practicing oubaitori helps me feel less stressed about my career.
- Instead of feeling behind her peers, she embraced the principle of oubaitori, trusting that her own success would arrive in its own season.
- In a culture dominated by social media metrics, the ancient wisdom of oubaitori offers a psychological shield against the corrosive effects of constant upward social comparison.

## Usage notes

- Often used in mindfulness or self-help contexts to describe a non-competitive mindset.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.