So Ikigai is a Japanese concept that translates to “reason for being” or “purpose in life.” It represents the intersection of four elements: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. While there are no strict rules of ikigai, there are some guiding principles that can help you find your own ikigai. Here are ten principles or questions to consider:
What do you love? Explore your passions and identify the activities or interests that bring you joy and fulfillment.
What are you good at? Recognize your skills, talents, and strengths. Determine the activities or areas where you excel or have the potential to excel.
What does the world need? Reflect on the needs of your community, society, or the world at large. Identify how you can contribute positively and make a meaningful impact.
What can you be paid for? Consider the practical aspect of your pursuits. Explore opportunities that align with your passions and skills while also providing a means of financial support.
What activities make time fly? Think about the activities that engross you to the extent that you lose track of time. These activities often indicate a deep connection and engagement.
What energizes and fulfills you? Identify the activities or experiences that leave you feeling energized, inspired, and fulfilled. These can be valuable clues to your ikigai.
What are your values and beliefs? Reflect on your personal values, beliefs, and principles. Determine how you can align your life’s purpose with these core aspects of your identity.
What are your life experiences and skills? Consider the experiences you have had in life and the skills you have acquired along the way. Determine how these can contribute to your ikigai.
What do you dream of achieving? Explore your dreams and aspirations. Imagine the kind of impact you want to have on the world and the legacy you want to leave behind.
How can you find harmony and balance? Seek a sense of harmony and balance in your pursuits. Strive to align your passions, skills, values, and the needs of the world to achieve a state of fulfillment and contentment.
