As the workplace becomes more globalized, use of outside the box training methods is increasing. Last month, 26 managers from 17 countries attended a training seminar in Tokyo to learn more about training practices across the globe. One such method was zanzen, a form of seated meditation to help with mindfulness and managing stress. Additionally, foreign managers were asked to memorize a short verse from a famous Noh drama. “Exposing them to a wide range of culture will help them on the job overseas,” the trainers explained. Additionally, many companies are emphasizing mental toughness and problem-solving skills in their managers. In September, Nissin Food Holdings is sending a group of new managers to an uninhabited island in the Seto Inland Sea for three days of “survival training.” These trainees will have to forgo the use of cell phones, and will only be given a small amount of food and water. If necessary, they will have to fish for food. Nissin started this training practice in 2003, and has seen success in creating resilient managers.