As humans, many of us question our purpose in life. Why am I here? Am I fulfilling my potential? Am I making the most of my abilities?
The Japanese offer a concept that beautifully encapsulates this journey: ikigai.
What is ikigai?
Ikigai is a Japanese term that translates to “your reason for being” or “the reason to get up in the morning.” According to Japanese wisdom, everyone has an ikigai—it simply takes patience and introspection to discover it.
How to find your ikigai
To uncover your ikigai, start by reflecting on these four key questions:
1. What are you passionate about?
2. What are you skilled at?
3. Does the world need what you offer?
4. Can you be compensated for it?
Similar to ikigai, I’ve noticed three things in top performers: Passion, Vision, and Commitment. These people continue to nurture their passion over the course of their career. They have a vision at each stage on where they want to take that passion, and are committed to achieve it.
A lifelong exploration
Discovering your ikigai isn’t a one-time exercise. It’s an ongoing journey because people grow, adapt, and change along with the world around them.
In Spanish, this idea is known as your plan de vida; in French, your raison d’être. Regardless of the cultural lens, true fulfillment requires alignment between your mission, passion, values, and beliefs. This harmony creates cognitive consonance rather than dissonance.
Stay curious. Learn something new every day. Teach others. Be relentless.
Happy New Year! 🎆