IKIGAI - Pursuing one's Ikigai is a journey of self-discovery that involves understanding one's passions, strengths and the needs of the world.
The concept
of ikigai centers around finding and pursuing a balance between four
fundamental elements:
- Passion (Your Love): This is what you
love to do, what brings you joy, and what excites you. It's the activity
that makes you feel fulfilled and energized.
- Mission (Your Mission): This is what the
world needs, something that you feel is your duty or calling to contribute
to society or others in some way.
- Vocation (Your Profession): This refers
to what you are good at, your skills, and what you can get paid for.
- Profession (Your Vocation): This
represents what the world will pay you for; it's your means of making a
living.
(A) Passion: Finding what you love to do
- What
activities have brought you joy since childhood?
- Which
tasks make you lose track of time because you’re so engrossed?
(B) Vocation: Finding what you’re good at
- What
are your natural talents and strengths?
- What
do people often turn to you for because you excel at it?
(C) Mission: Defining what the world needs
- What
societal issues or causes deeply affect you?
- What
matters to you on a global or local scale?
(D) Profession: Defining what you can do as a
profession
- Can
you offer valuable services or create products people would want?
- Is
there a job you excel at that could easily become your profession?
When these four elements intersect, it is said that you have found your ikigai – that special convergence of passion, mission, vocation, and profession. Discovering and living in alignment with your ikigai can lead to a sense of fulfilment, happiness, and overall well-being.
The concept
of ikigai has gained popularity beyond Japan and has been embraced by people
seeking a deeper understanding of their life's purpose and seeking more meaning
in their daily existence. It encourages individuals to reflect on their values,
interests, skills, and the impact they want to have on the world to find a path
that aligns with their true calling.
Practically
speaking after finding our IKIGAI many of us will not choose or afraid of
choosing due to various social commitments, peer pressure, family
obligations. It's natural to be afraid but at least we should be aware of this.
If life gives us a chance of what we can do we must pursue IKIGAI for a
sustainable happiness. We must have a target in mind, things which we will
aspire to, let’s began the journey by knowing and answering the tough