Ikigai - Your Purpose

Written by David Beattie

In Japan (or more specifically Okinawa) there is a concept called Ikigai (ee-kee-guy) which translates into ‘reason for being’ or, colloquially, the reason we get up in the morning - our purpose. It’s about what brings satisfaction, fulfilment and meaning to our lives.

Ikigai addresses four fundamental questions:

1. What do you love to do? - What brings you the most joy? What do you like doing?

2. What are you good at? – What skills, talents, capabilities do you possess?

3. What does the world need? - Do others get something from your skills?

4. What can you be paid for? – Is someone willing to pay for the service/the value that you bring?

Ikigai is best summed up the below diagram

[1

PASSION is where what you love meets what you're good at.

MISSION is where what you love meets what the world needs.

PROFESSION is where what you are good at meets what you are paid for.

VOCATION is where what the world needs meets what you can get paid for.

And the sweet spot is the very centre - IKIGAI

“Find something you love to do and you’ll never have to work a day in your life” – Confucius

[1] Ikigai – The Japanese secret to a long and happy life – Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles