IKIGAI: The Key to Happiness and Purpose in Life

In today’s fast-paced and hectic world, many people feel lost, losing their joy and motivation to continue their journey. Yet in Japan, there is a profound concept that helps individuals discover the meaning of life and a reason to wake up each day – it is IKIGAI. 

What is Ikigai? 

Ikigai is derived from two Japanese words:
• Iki (生き) means “to live”
• Gai (甲斐) means “value” or “purpose” 

Put simply, Ikigai translates to “a reason for being” or “your daily motivation”. It is the sweet spot where four key elements of life intersect: 

1/ What you love (Your Passion): Things that bring you joy, excitement, and enthusiasm.
2/ What you are good at (Your Talent): The skills and abilities that you excel at and do better than others.
3/ What the world needs (Your Mission): Contributions and values you can offer to the community or society.
4/ What you can be paid for (Your Profession): Work that allows you to earn an income. 

Why is Ikigai Important? 

Ikigai is not just a philosophy but a guiding principle that helps you:
– Find clarity in your purpose: Understand where you’re heading and why.
– Live a balanced and fulfilling life: Connect your passion, skills, and practical needs.
– Nurture motivation: Wake up every day with a reason, no matter how small, to move forward.
– Reduce stress and find happiness: Doing meaningful and enjoyable work brings peace to your soul. 

Research has shown that Ikigai is one of the secrets to longevity, good health, and happiness for the Japanese, particularly in Okinawa, a region known for having the highest life expectancy in the world. 

How to Discover Your Ikigai? 

Ikigai does not appear overnight; it is the result of a journey of self-discovery. Here are some steps you can take to uncover your Ikigai: 

1/ Ask Yourself:
• What makes you happy and full of energy?
• What are you good at and feel confident doing?
• What does the world need that you can contribute to?
• What job allows you to earn money while feeling fulfilled? 

2/  Write and Analyze:
Write down your answers and identify the overlap between these elements. The Ikigai diagram can help you see your life purpose more clearly. 

3/  Start with Small Actions:
Ikigai doesn’t need to be something grand. Sometimes, it can be as simple as tending a garden, cooking for your family, or creating value through work you enjoy. 

4/  Be Persistent and Keep Exploring:
Ikigai isn’t fixed; it evolves as you grow. Listen to yourself and adapt to different stages of life. 

The Ikigai Journey in Real Life: 

Ikigai can be seen all around us. It might be: 

• An artisan dedicating their life to perfecting a single craft with passion and love. 

• A teacher inspiring their students, finding purpose in every lesson they share. 

• A customer service professional feeling fulfilled by creating positive experiences for others. 

“Ikigai is not a destination but the journey you live each day, filled with joy and appreciation for every moment.” 

Have you discovered your Ikigai yet? Don’t worry if you’re still on your journey! Slow down, listen to yourself, and trust that everyone has a reason to live a meaningful and happy life. 

Share your Ikigai story with HANA Asia!