Ikigai 生き甲斐
According to the Japanese culture, one way to a more meaningful and purposeful life is to discover your ikigai. Ikigai is a combination of the Japanese words iki meaning ‘life’ and gai meaning ‘worth or value’. Together this roughly translates as ‘the reason for being’, your purpose in life. Finding purpose in life is one of the most fundamental human needs. By our very nature, we seek meaning and validation of our place in the world.
Ikigai is said to be be found at the convergence of four fundamental elements: passion (what you love); vocation (what you’re good at); mission (what the world needs) and profession (what you can be paid for). In Japanese culture, ikigai is a comprehensive approach to life, encompassing joy, a sense of purpose, and a feeling of wellbeing. Ikigai can bring meaning, purpose, and fulfilment to your life, while also contributing positively to the world.
While we may all have an ikigai, not everyone has the privilege of immediately choosing a career path the satisfies their ikigai. Ikigai is not a destination but a journey that takes time and effort. It involves a continual process of, self-reflection, exploration and alignment of your passions, skills and what the world needs. It’s about living intentionally, seeking opportunities for personal growth and contributing to the good of others in a way that aligns with your inner values.
As with many philosophies translated across cultures, the deeper nuances and layers can sometimes be lost or overly simplified. When engaging with ikigai, it may be valuable to delve into its rich historical and cultural background, acknowledging that there is more to it than a convergence of 4 elements on a Venn diagram.
Key Takeaways
• Be conscious of the four elements — passion, vocation, mission and profession.
• Take time to reflect and design your life.
• Apply ikigai as a daily guide rather than an end goal.
• Remain curious and compassionate with the journey.
#ikigai
Image retrieved from: Nahida Coelho “How Ikigai helped me find meaning and purpose in my career and life.”