YOU ARE so lucky, you already found your “ikigai,” Hiroko-san said, right after her
healing session with me, on my recent trip to Japan last month.
Ikigai is a Japanese word which literally means “life worth” or “life purpose.” It is a concept of enjoying activities you are passionate about and a profession you are good at. A reason to get up every morning inspired and high spirited.
Even more, it is something that brings self-fulfillment, contentment, and a sense of well-being, Moreso, you get paid for it, and the demand for that specific job passion is big. These are the dynamics of ikigai.
To make it more understandable, an example: I am a natural medicine healer. I love what I do. It was my dream since I was a child. My work doesn’t feel like a job at all. With my regular practice, I mastered my craft so well and confident with my know how. There is huge demand for healers like me in the globe. Though healing is my passion, it is also my profession, so I get paid for it. These are the overlapping ikigai components.
How to find your ikigai? There are four spheres that could assist you in this.
Foremost, I suggest that you do a self-reflection first. To clearly see your truth, and the reason and mission of your existence.
To unfold your ikigai, ask these questions: What is it that you sincerely love to do? Which field are you good at and will be happy about? Does the world or society need it? Will it take care of you financially to cover your living expenses?
Be honest with your answers. For your flow will be based on them. It might be difficult for others to follow the principles of ikigai. Keep in mind that with consistent action and belief in you – an abundant harvest awaits.
Your passion and where you are great at might be different. It is alright. You can do both. For instance, playing the piano is your passion but you are not competitive yet. Hence, it doesn’t give any economic reward. On the other hand, you are outstanding in the art of life coaching. It pays handsomely too. Balance is the key.
What if your passion and where you excel is not in demand and doesn’t produce profits? According to the Ikigai traditional discipline adapted from Zen Buddhism philosophy, what the world needs and monetary reward doesn’t include and do not have anything to do with the practice.
As a matter of fact, the core teachings are: To learn how to embrace joy in every small experience in life, to be present and aware of the here and now, to possess a positive frame of mind, and most importantly, to stay active that will make you want to live a hundred years.
May you find the reason for your being and live the best life you’ve been desiring for.
Namaste.
