A Tradition of Reflection and Renewal: FLO’s Annual Bounenkai & Shinnenkai
- Farida Law Office
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
At Farida Law Office (FLO), the turn of the year is not marked by a single celebration, but by a meaningful two-part tradition rooted in Japanese culture: Bounenkai and Shinnenkai. In Japan, Bounenkai (忘年会) means “a gathering to forget the year,” while Shinnenkai (新年会) means “a gathering to welcome the new year.” These traditions are commonly observed as structured moments of reflection, release, renewal, and collective intention-setting. Over the years, FLO has adopted this cultural practice into the firm in Indonesia as a living tradition that shapes its internal culture.
Held at the close of 2025, FLO’s Bounenkai serves as a deliberate pause before entering the next chapter. Desks are cleared, case files are set aside, and the team gathers in a spirit of gratitude and emotional reset. The event traditionally begins with a communal potluck, where FLOnians from every department contribute home-cooked dishes and share a meal together. True to the essence of Bounenkai, the gathering then transitions into a symbolic “reset” session. During this moment, the team collectively releases the pressures of the past year, hopeful and ready for a better year ahead. The evening concludes with a group photograph, capturing not just a team, but a unified office that has consciously chosen renewal over fatigue.
Then, as the new year of 2026 begins, FLO reconvenes for Shinnenkai as the counterpart to Bounenkai and the official opening of a new professional chapter. Once again, the communal table becomes the starting point. Through another shared potluck, colleagues reconnect after the year-end break, easing into the rhythm of work through warmth and conversation. The atmosphere bridges holiday reflection with professional ambition, as Shinnenkai is centered on intention and aspiration for a better year in 2026.
During the shared meal, the program shifts toward goal setting not only the firm’s targets, but also personal aspirations for the year ahead, such as professional milestones, new certifications, litigation victories, travel goals, family aspirations, and personal growth plans. This practice reinforces a core belief within the firm: collective success is built upon fulfilled and motivated individuals.
In conclusion, in a profession defined by pressure, conflict, and relentless deadlines, FLO deliberately creates space for emotional closure and intentional beginnings. By embedding Bounenkai and Shinnenkai into its annual calendar, FLO demonstrates cross-cultural awareness while strengthening its institutional values. This tradition reinforces warmth, mutual support, and shared direction, which are essential values to FLO.
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