Ikigai

Growing up I fondly remember the probing question that was asked of me by my parents, aunts and uncles.  They would pose the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”  Their question was intended to create an inner reflection in to what career I would pursue.

While this “cliche” question may have been annoying to some people, for me, the question was intriguing and initiated a cascade of thoughts regarding my future.  My first thoughts ranged from being a mechanic, carpenter or architect to becoming an astronaut and exploring the universe.  Over the years my interests and priorities changed and choosing my life’s path became a much more serious endeavor. I eventually chose my career and attended college studying physics and mechanical engineering.  My career choice has given me the opportunity to earn income while doing what I truly enjoy which is solving problems, and designing new products.  Yet, there is much more to life than work and income and I ‘d have to decide what I would spend my time doing outside of work.  I needed to better understand myself and discover what other activities in my life would bring me contentment, accomplishment, purpose and ultimately happiness.

Over the years as I experienced many social activities and created personal accomplishment goals for myself, I discovered a life philosophy that had a positive impact on me.  The concept which is part of the Japanese culture is called Ikigai.  Ikigai is a Japanese term that combines two words: “iki” meaning “to live,” and “gai” meaning “reason”.  This Japanese term: “Ikigai” meaning a reason to live or a reason for being encourages people to discover what truly matters to them and ultimately live a life filled with purpose and joy.

Ikigai breaks life into four categories, what you love, what your good at, what the world needs and what you get paid for.  

The goal is to find activities in your life that fill all of these areas and if you do, you’ll live a very fulfilling life that has great purpose and brings you joy.

I encourage you to take the time and find your Ikigai.