Ikigai

By Riza Shanti Lim

“You are so lucky. You already found your “ikigai”,” Hiroko-san said right after her healing session with me in my 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. More so, 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, here is 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 regular practice, I mastered my craft so well and am confident with my know-how.

There is a huge demand for healers like me around 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 you do 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 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 these.

It might be difficult for others to follow the principles of ikigai. Keep in mind that with consistent action and a belief in yourself – 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. Pays handsomely, too.