Ikigai is an ancient Japanese philosophy that has enveloped the way Japanese people live. Some believe the concept of ikigai is even the reason for their happiness and longevity.
Ikigai means your ‘reason for being.’ Your ikigai is your life purpose or your bliss; it brings you joy and inspires you to get out of bed every day.
The Japanese concept of ikigai deeply rooted in the culture and mindset of the Japanese people, is a fascinating philosophy that offers guidance in finding purpose and meaning in life. Comprised of two words, “iki” meaning life and “gai” meaning worth or value, Ikigai essentially translates to “the reason for being” or “the joy of living.”
Four essential elements
Ikigai represents a holistic approach to life, blending together four essential elements: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be rewarded for. It is at the intersection of these four dimensions that one discovers their true Ikigai – the sweet spot where passion, talent, contribution, and fulfilment converge.
In essence, the concept of ikigai encourages you to identify your passions, explore your natural talents, contribute to society, and find financial stability. It emphasises a purpose-driven life, aligning personal values with meaningful actions. It is not related to the trappings by which traditionally signal success is society, in fact, says Ken Mogi, author of The Little Book of Ikigai, “Ikigai is possible without your necessarily being successful in your professional life”. He adds “It is true that having Ikigai can result in success, but success is not a requisite condition for having ikigai”.
Needless to say, Ikigai is seen as a powerful tool for leaders to create purpose and boost engagement. In his LinkedIn post on the concept of Ikigai, Serge Genetet quotes CEO Hubert Joly, who emphasises the “transformative power of aligning personal purpose with organizational mission”.
No limits
Ikigai is not limited to your professional life; it encompasses all aspects of existence, including relationships, hobbies, and personal growth. It promotes a balanced approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit.
Embracing Ikigai can lead to a deep sense of fulfilment, contentment, and overall well-being. By pursuing activities that align with your Ikigai, you can experience a profound sense of purpose and joy in your everyday lives, say the experts.
Ultimately, Ikigai serves as a guiding principle, inspiring us to live a purposeful, harmonious life, rich in meaning and happiness.
