Ikigai is a Japanese concept that combines the two words “iki,” meaning life or alive and “gai,” meaning worth. It is often translated as, “a reason for being” or, “a reason to wake up in the morning.” It is also similar to the French term, “raison d’etre” or “reason for being.”
It basically means, ‘find or discover your purpose’. Once you are aware of your purpose, it becomes easier to wake up every morning and go after it.
Ikigai represents the intersection of four fundamental elements in one’s life, which can lead to a sense of fulfilment and purpose.
These elements are:
- What you love (your passion): This is something that you genuinely love and brings you joy.
- What you are good at (your vocation): These are your skills, abilities, and talents you have developed over time.
- What the world needs (your mission): This refers to the things you can do that contribute to the well-being of others or the world.
- What you can be paid for (your profession): This involves finding a way to make a living through activities that align with your passion and skills, and contribute to a greater purpose.
Finding where these four intersect might not always be easy, but once you get it, it is the sweet spot. It’s the area that’s rewarding to you and the world around you, yet allows you to live a comfortable life or at least earn a living.