This information could change your life. How do I know? Because it is changing mine!
In our fast-paced, goal-oriented world, many of us juggle countless responsibilities, striving for success while searching for purpose. Amid this chaos, the Japanese concept of ikigai offers a beacon of clarity and fulfilment. Ikigai—often translated as “reason for being”—represents the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. It’s a profound yet accessible framework for aligning your passions and skills with your professional and personal lives.
Let’s explore how to discover your ikigai and unlock a more purposeful existence.
Ikigai—often translated as “reason for being”—represents the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
The Four Pillars of Ikigai
At the heart of ikigai are four overlapping circles that form a sweet spot where happiness, contribution, and sustainability coexist:
- What You Love (Passion) This is the foundation of ikigai. It encompasses your hobbies, interests, and activities that spark joy.
- What You’re Good At (Profession) These skills and talents you have honed over time. They may come naturally or result from years of practice.
- What the World Needs (Mission) Here lies your opportunity to create impact. It could be addressing societal challenges or fulfilling needs in your immediate community. Consider:
- What You Can Be Paid For (Vocation) This practical element ensures sustainability. It’s about aligning your value with financial reward.
When these four elements overlap, you find your ikigai—a purpose-driven life that feels fulfilling and sustainable.
The Journey to Discovering Ikigai
Finding your ikigai is a journey of self-reflection and exploration. Here’s how to begin:
1. Reflect Deeply
Set aside time to journal, meditate, or talk with trusted friends and mentors. Explore your past experiences, identifying patterns in what energises and fulfils you.
2. Experiment Fearlessly
Ikigai isn’t always apparent at first glance. Experiment with hobbies, side projects, or new roles to test what resonates. For instance, if you’re passionate about teaching but work in a corporate job, consider mentoring colleagues or volunteering to teach a class.
3. Seek Feedback
Sometimes, others see our talents more clearly than we do. Reach out to those who know you well and ask for honest feedback on your strengths and potential.
4. Align and Adapt
Life circumstances change, and so can your ikigai. Revisit these pillars regularly to ensure your life aligns with your evolving values and goals.
Ikigai in Action: A Personal Story
When I faced the possibility of being retrenched this year, it made me stop and examine my life. I questioned everything: Why am I here? Who am I if I lose my career? I was overthinking everything, desperately trying to find meaning and purpose. Finding my ikigai has been transformative in my journey. I look to my future with great excitement because I know where to focus my energy and attention.
I couldn’t believe how easy this process is. But don’t be fooled. It is a powerful exercise. I looked at things I am good at, things I love, how I could be paid, and, most importantly, whether this is a problem or need in society. My years of experience, my strengths, and my personal brand are at the point now where I can see the synergies between them. If for nothing else, evaluating your current situation is a great exercise.
Finding my purpose and why, along with Ikigai, is helping me focus on what matters. It requires trial, error, and introspection. But the result is a life where passion and purpose converge, making work feel less like a chore and more like a calling.
Why Ikigai Matters Today
Pursuing ikigai is more than a personal journey—it’s a response to the societal challenges of burnout, disconnection, and stagnation. Human purpose remains irreplaceable in a world increasingly driven by automation and efficiency.
By finding and living your ikigai, you will enrich your life and contribute to a more thoughtful, compassionate world.
Your Ikigai Awaits
Whether you’re at the start of your career, considering a mid-life pivot, or reflecting on your legacy, the ikigai framework can guide you toward a more meaningful existence. Take the first step today—explore what brings you joy, where your talents shine, and how you can impact the world.
The journey is uniquely yours, but the rewards are universal.
What’s your ikigai? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Let’s inspire each other to live with purpose!
References
- Garcia, H. & Miralles, F. (2017). Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life.
- Mogi, K. (2018). The Little Book of Ikigai: The Essential Japanese Way to Finding Your Purpose in Life.
