Ikigai: The Japanese secret to a long and happy life
What is your reason for being? What makes you jump out of bed each morning?
Ikigai (“ee-kee-guy”) is all about finding the unique element within yourself that will provide you with what you need to build and live a meaningful and happy life.
The origin of the word Ikigai is said to go back to the Heian period (794 to 1185). “Gai” comes from the word “kai” (“shell” in Japanese) which were deemed highly valuable, and from there, the word Ikigai was derived: meaning value in living.”
Don’t confuse Ikigai with finding happiness through status and money, as that is not at all its purpose. Rather than the superficial pursuit of power, riches or status, the purpose of Ikigai is deep and heart centred. While earning money is part of the process, it is a by-product, not the focus.
The premise is to focus on your passion, what excites you and makes your heart pound with curiosity and creativity.
I have been fortunate enough to find my own Ikigai – writing.
All forms of writing are joy and light to me and are essential to my being. Incorporating writing within my daily life continuously brings not only joy and happiness, but also meaning and purpose, to my life. Hopefully also, by writing, I contribute in some small way to the world around me.
So how does Ikigai work? Ask yourself these questions:
What do you love?
What does the world need?
What are you good at?
What can you get paid for?
Combine these four elements, and you have Ikigai.
The real beauty is that as you change, Ikigai changes with you. You can change paths, re-focus and re-ignite your life as your experience, interests and passions grow and change. This is true freedom. It is recognising that we are evolving beings and that our potential is limitless. This gives space for creativity and passion to hold court in our present-day and also when planning our future.
Finding your Ikigai is a personal journey. Getting there is part of the process and part of growing. Look deep within yourself and answer those four questions honestly – without considering or trying to please others. It requires you to focus on your priorities, and what’s important to you as a human being, acknowledge challenges and be open to learning and growing.
This self-assessment can help you determine your needs and wants, building a better understanding of what exactly meaning and happiness is for you.
You also need to set boundaries for yourself. Without personal boundaries, you are not honouring yourself or the process. Protecting yourself, your values, and your time is essential to welcoming Ikigai into your life.
Ikigai does take a lot of self-reflection, planning, and understanding of yourself, but it’s worth the effort. A meaningful life isn’t a destination; it’s your life journey.
It can be difficult, especially combining all four elements. So start with discovering your passion and meaning then decide how you can incorporate them into your daily life. Start small, and allow the rest to follow.
If you’d like a little more help in enjoying your life journey and finding your personal Ikigai, the book by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles, “Ikigai – The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life!” is the perfect companion. This book will help you work out what your own Ikigai really is, and equip you to change your life.
