"No Fish, Prawns Will Do": Lessons in Resilience and Strategic Adaptation
A Culture of Adaptability in Modern Times
The Hokkien proverb "bo hu, hae ah pun ho," which translates to "no fish, prawns will do," embodies a cultural ethos of resilience, adaptability, and making the best of limited circumstances. Originating from southern China and spreading across Southeast Asia, this saying underscores the importance of pragmatism in the face of adversity. In today’s rapidly shifting job market, particularly in China, this philosophy offers valuable lessons for addressing the pressing challenge of youth unemployment.
China's record-high youth unemployment rates, which peaked at over 21% in mid-2023, have left many young graduates struggling to secure meaningful employment. This stark reality mirrors the need for resilience and resourcefulness — qualities encapsulated in the proverb. However, as the job market evolves, the focus must shift from merely "making do" to leveraging alternative opportunities for growth and innovation.
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