IKIGAI
Can you imagine a situation when you wake up in the morning and smile at the thought of working? Can you imagine that your job is not only something that brings you money, but also something you love, you’re good at and it makes the world a better place? Well, no matter what your answer is, let’s discover a wonderful Japanese concept – IKIGAI…
PICK THE WAY YOU WANT TO LEARN ABOUT IKIGAI: (pictorial essentials, article, podcast)
Pictorial Essentials
How to find your Ikigai? The steps given in the file can help you:
References:
Garcia H. and Miralles F., (2017). Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. London: Hutchinson
PODCAST
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ARTICLE
How to find your Ikigai?
Ikigai is an absolute must if you’ve got doubts over your career choice or you simply lack a direction in life.
In Japanese Ikigai means “reason for being” or “reason to live”, and personally, I have no words to express how much I love the concept of Ikigai. According to this philosophy if we do something that is at the same time something we love, we’re good at, we’re paid for and it contributes to the world, then this our Ikigai.
Sounds impossible? Well, believe me or not, but if you follow the 6 steps that are written below, then you might find your Ikigai faster than it seems. So, if you have some time, please take 2 pieces of paper (or download the ready-to-use list that I prepared) and colourful pens.
STEP 1
The first question:
- What do you love doing?
Write down anything coming to your mind, even the most prosaic things, for instance that you like hiking or watching fantasy films. Jot down as many things as you can. Take your time, there’s no rush.
STEP 2
Take another piece of paper and answer our second question:
- What are you good at?
Once again jot down as many things as possible, even that you’re good at remembering dates or that you’re good at telling jokes.
STEP 3
Now, compare the two lists carefully, take a colorful pen and circle the things that are present on both lists. For example, if you love playing volleyball and you’re good at it, circle it. Once you’ve finished, cross out the rest of the things on your lists.
STEP 4
Now, take another colourful pen and mark the things that you could be paid for. Once you’ve done, the list is probably even shorter now.
STEP 5
Take yet another colourful pen and mark the things that could contribute to the world
STEP 6
Analyse the things that are left – it can take some time, but the more you ponder over the lists, the easier it should be for you to see what your Ikigai could be. If you look at your Ikigai and you snigger deeming it unrealistic, then please remember:
If you want to read the book on Ikigai, here’s the link
Go to Topic Map
Or, why don’t you discover you Signature Strenghts?
