In our modern, fast-paced world, many individuals find themselves longing for a sense of purpose and fulfillment. People search for the elusive balance between work, relationships, personal growth, and inner satisfaction. In Japan, however, there exists a powerful concept that offers a profound perspective on leading a meaningful life: Ikigai. Rooted in ancient wisdom, Ikigai has gained global attention as a powerful tool for finding purpose and happiness. In this article, we will explore the depths of Ikigai, its origins, and how it can transform our lives.

The term “ikigai” came from Japanese language. It is a Japanese concept on the secret of happy life, largely followed in Okinawa (southern Japan). As a Japanese term it translates to “reason for being” or “the joy and purpose of life.” It represents the intersection of four fundamental elements: what we love, what we are good at, what the world needs, and what we can be paid for. When these aspects converge, Ikigai is discovered, leading to a deep sense of fulfillment and contentment.

Ikigai finds its roots in the Japanese island of Okinawa, known for its large population of centenarians and remarkably healthy and happy residents. Okinawans attribute their longevity and vitality to living a life rich in Ikigai. While the concept itself is ancient, it has gained recognition worldwide in recent years due to its relevance in today’s fast-paced and disconnected society.

This Okinawa life philosophy gives us a reason to get up in the morning, energy to enjoy our work, loving what we do, giving meaning to our existence, increase in happiness and result in long life. The average life span of Okinawan is best in the entire world.

To find our ‘IKIGAI’ we must assess our self the following four points:

1.      Something that we Love: (What do we Love?)

The first pillar of Ikigai involves identifying our passions and understanding what brings us joy and fulfillment. It encourages self-reflection and introspection to discover the activities, hobbies, and experiences that ignite our enthusiasm.

–         Reading on professional development, skills

–         Following documentary

–         Singing

–         Dancing

2.      Something that the world needs: (What does the world need?)

It focuses on identifying the needs of the world around us, including our communities, societies, and the broader global context. It emphasizes the importance of contributing to something larger than ourselves and making a positive impact on others.

–         Why we are needed in the community (Everyone’s work makes a difference)

–         Positive effect of our work on the rest of the world (Love your work and works towards- How to make the difference)

–         Contribution to profession, family, and society.

3.      Something that pays you well: (What can we be paid for?)

It acknowledges the practical aspect of Ikigai. While not the sole motivator, it recognizes that financial stability and the ability to support oneself are essential for a balanced and fulfilling life.

–         You need to get paid enough to live comfortably

–         Plan your professional development in the way to lead your long-term goal

–         Not to depend on one source of Income

4.      Something you are good at: (What are we good at?)

It revolves around recognizing our strengths, talents, and skills. It encourages individuals to leverage their unique abilities and invest time and effort in honing their craft.

–         Exploring skills, you are good at and you want to achieve

–         Overcoming obstacles to achieve you desired skill set

–         Financial skills, Public speaking, writing, consulting, communication and Leadership.

–         Figure out How to convince people instead of saying thing loudly *

A.     Something that you Love + Something you are good at = PASSION

[you need to figure out, how to make money doing this]

B.     Something that you Love + Something that the world needs = MISSION

[you need to figure out how to get better at his craft] *

C.      Something you are good at+ Something that pays you well = PROFESSION

[you need to try out new things and find something you love doing]

D.     Something that pays you well + Something that the world needs = VOCATION

[you need to constantly change yourself to get better]

Finding Balance and Living Ikigai:

Living in alignment with Ikigai requires a harmonious balance between these four pillars. When we pursue activities that combine our passions, skills, societal needs, and financial stability, we unlock a profound sense of purpose and joy. It is important to note that Ikigai need not be found solely in our careers but can manifest in various aspects of life, including relationships, hobbies, and personal endeavors.

Practical Steps to Discovering Ikigai:

• Self-reflection: Take time to deeply reflect on your values, interests, and what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. Consider your strengths and the activities that make you lose track of time.
• Identifying societal needs: Explore the world around you and identify areas where you can make a positive impact. It can be as simple as helping your community, volunteering for a cause, or pursuing a career that contributes to a greater purpose.
• Expanding skills and knowledge: Invest in your personal growth and development. Continuously learn and improve upon your existing skills while exploring new areas of interest.
• Experimentation: Be open to new experiences and explore different activities that align with your passions and strengths. This process allows you to refine your understanding of what truly resonates with you.

Ikigai is a profound concept that offers a roadmap to a purposeful and fulfilling life. By merging our passions, skills, societal needs, and financial stability, we can discover a deep sense of joy, contentment, and meaning. It reminds us to live with intention and seek balance in all aspects of our lives. Embracing Ikigai can lead to a profound transformation, allowing us to create a life that aligns with our values and aspirations, ultimately leading to a more meaningful existence.

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How To Live A Long And Happy Life? (Okinawa philosophies)

1)     Follow your Ikigai – reason to get up in morning, keeps yourself busy

2)     Take it Slow – slower approaches towards some part of life

3)     Don’t fill your stomach – five serving of foods in a day, less sugar, less salt, green tea, peppers, sprouts, fruits. “Hara-hachi-bu”: Eat until you are 80% full. It should be “I am not filling hungry” instead of I am full.

4)     Suffering yourself with good friends – three or four really good friends, who cares for you and friend in need.

5)     Smile – real laugh coming from heart and mind sometime is essential. Smile in everywhere – makes you appear professional, you appear confident, self-assured.  

6)     Reconnect with Nature – gardening, stay connected to nature, viewing nature, greenery.

7)     Give Thanks – to things you are grateful for, pay gratitude.

8)     Exercise – no gym, go outside, never stop moving, jogging, yoga, calisthenics.

9)     Live in the movement – pay attention, stay focus, ‘no room for error’, enjoy the thing by doing it, concentration, feel the things, enthusiasm – this is the movement, there is no past, no future, just now, you are in.

10)  Never Retire – be active, retirement kills ikigai. Follow ikigai above. 

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Source:

Book – Ikigai – Japanese secret to a long and happy life by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles, Wiki and Others.