Coffee Break with Noriko - Real Talk & Daily Thoughts 7

📌 ポッドキャスト理解のためのキーワード（10語）

• スロースタート ー すろーすたーと ー a slow start
• 調子が出る ー ちょうしがでる ー to get into a good rhythm / to feel back on track
• 積読 ー つんどく ー buying books and not reading them (book pile-up)
• 読書量 ー どくしょりょう ー the amount of reading one does
• 現実逃避 ー げんじつとうひ ー escape from reality
• 道草を食う ー みちくさをくう ー to take a detour / to get sidetracked
• 寄り道 ー よりみち ー stopping somewhere on the way / a detour
• 急がば回れ ー いそがばまわれ ー more haste, less speed / slow down to go further
• 初心忘るべからず ー しょしんわするべからず ー never forget you are still learning / stay humble as a learner
• 仕組み ー しくみ ー a system or structure (that helps you continue)a system / structure (that helps you continue)

Summary (English) In this episode, Noriko shares a relaxed January reflection. She talks about starting 2026 slowly, focusing on reading, writing, and consistency rather than rushing for results. She reflects on reducing her unread book pile, reading across multiple languages and formats, and finding comfort in books amid overwhelming news. Noriko also explores Japanese expressions like michikusa o kuu (taking detours) and isogaba maware (slow down to go further), linking them to language learning and life. The episode highlights the value of small, steady habits, showing up regularly, and finding joy in everyday moments.