Have you ever wondered why you wake up each morning? Or questioned what truly makes you happy? The Japanese concept of Ikigai, finding your purpose the Japanese way, might hold the answers you’re looking for.
What is Ikigai?
Ikigai (pronounced ee-kee-guy) is a Japanese idea that means “a reason for being.” It’s the sweet spot where passion, mission, profession, and vocation come together. In short, Ikigai is your reason to get up in the morning.
Origins of Ikigai
The concept of Ikigai originates from Okinawa, Japan, an area renowned for its high number of centenarians. Researchers discovered that having a clear purpose is a significant factor in their long, healthy, and happy lives. Okinawans credit their longevity to daily routines centered around Ikigai.
Why is Ikigai Important?
People in Okinawa, Japan, are known for their long and happy lives. One of their secrets is Ikigai. When you have a clear purpose, life becomes meaningful and joyful. It provides direction, reduces stress, and increases overall satisfaction. Ikigai encourages positive habits, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
How to Find Your Ikigai
Ikigai involves answering four simple questions:
- What do you love?
Think about things you enjoy—activities that make you lose track of time. - What are you good at?
Consider your talents or skills. What do others often praise you for? - What does the world need?
Look around. What problems or needs can you help solve? - What can you be paid for?
Identify skills or services others would willingly pay for.
Your Ikigai is the intersection of these four areas.
Detailed Steps to Discover Ikigai
- Make Lists: Write down comprehensive answers to the four questions.
- Identify Common Themes: Highlight overlaps in your responses.
- Experiment and Explore: Try various activities based on these overlaps.
- Reflect Regularly: Routinely evaluate how these activities align with your inner feelings and happiness.
- Gather Feedback: Talk to friends, family, or mentors about your potential strengths and interests.
- Embrace Patience: Allow yourself time; discovering Ikigai is an evolving process.
Practical Examples of Ikigai
- Teaching: If you love helping others, excel in communication, recognize a global need for education, and can earn an income as an educator, teaching could be your Ikigai.
- Cooking: If experimenting with recipes excites you, your culinary skills are admired, you understand the need for nutritious meals, and you see a path to earn through cooking, culinary arts might be your Ikigai.
- Writing: If storytelling brings you joy, you’re skilled at articulating thoughts, the world values clear communication, and writing can provide income, becoming a writer might represent your Ikigai.
- Entrepreneurship: Passionate about innovation, good at problem-solving, identify needs in the market, and can monetize solutions? Entrepreneurship could be your Ikigai.
Benefits of Living Your Ikigai
- Enhanced Happiness: A clear purpose elevates your sense of joy.
- Better Health: Reduced stress and increased positivity contribute to physical and mental well-being.
- Improved Productivity: Purpose-driven life enhances motivation and effectiveness.
- Stronger Relationships: Shared values and clear purposes often lead to deeper connections.
- Inner Fulfillment: Living aligned with your Ikigai leads to greater satisfaction and emotional stability.
- Sustained Motivation: Understanding your why maintains your enthusiasm, even through challenges.
Integrating Ikigai into Daily Life
Discovering your Ikigai isn’t a one-time task but a lifelong practice:
- Daily Reflection: Spend moments each day contemplating your purpose.
- Continuous Learning: Explore new interests frequently to refine and redefine your Ikigai.
- Flexible Mindset: Adapt your Ikigai as life circumstances evolve.
- Community Involvement: Engage with communities that align with your Ikigai, enhancing your sense of belonging.
Common Myths About Ikigai
- Ikigai Must Be Your Career: Ikigai can also be hobbies, passions, or volunteer activities.
- You Can Only Have One Ikigai: You may have multiple interests that provide fulfillment simultaneously.
- Ikigai Never Changes: Your Ikigai may evolve as you grow and change throughout life.
- Finding Ikigai is Instant: Discovering your purpose takes time, introspection, and experience.
Books and Resources to Explore Ikigai Further
- Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles.
- Awakening Your Ikigai by Ken Mogi.
- TED Talks and online workshops specifically focused on Ikigai and purposeful living.
Embrace Your Ikigai Today
Your Ikigai is unique and special to you. Finding it can significantly enhance your quality of life, bringing clarity, happiness, and meaningful success. Begin your journey today and allow your Ikigai to guide your daily decisions. Your future self will appreciate the effort and intention you invest today.
Stay tuned for our next post where we’ll dive deeper into our new Self Discovery Series on MSGT! Also check out more about DISC, Enneagram and MBTI here.
Always our pleasure to share good things with everyone 
Check us out and follow us on our Tiktok, Facebook, Instagram or Telegram for more content!
