What is Ikigai?
Ikigai (生き甲斐) is a Japanese concept that translates roughly to “reason for being” or “what makes life worth living.” It’s the sweet spot where what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for all come together.
Your ikigai lies at the intersection of four elements:
- ❤️ What you love (passion)
- ⭐ What you’re good at (vocation)
- 🌍 What the world needs (mission)
- 💰 What you can be paid for (profession)
When these four areas align, you find your ikigai—a life filled with purpose, joy, and contribution.
Why Find Your Ikigai?
- 🌿 To live a life aligned with your values
- 🔥 To feel more motivated and energized
- 🧭 To make clearer career and life decisions
- 💡 To feel useful, fulfilled, and at peace with yourself
How to Find Your Ikigai
Finding your ikigai takes reflection and self-honesty. Here’s a simple 4-step method:
✍️ 1. List what you love
What brings you joy? What activities make you lose track of time?
🛠️ 2. Identify what you’re good at
What are your strengths? What do others come to you for?
🌱 3. Consider what the world needs
What causes or issues move you? Where do you want to make a difference?
💼 4. Think about what you can be paid for
Which of your passions or skills have professional value? What services or talents are in demand?
Ikigai Example
Example:
- ❤️ I love writing and inspiring people
- ⭐ I’m good at storytelling
- 🌍 The world needs uplifting narratives
- 💰 I can be paid as a writer, blogger, or writing coach
➡️ Ikigai: sharing meaning through writing
🪞 Tool to Go Further
Download our “Find Your Ikigai” worksheet with guided questions and a visual diagram to complete.
👉 [Link to PDF or online tool]
In Conclusion
Finding your ikigai doesn’t mean changing everything overnight. It means bringing awareness to what lights you up—and taking small steps toward a more aligned and meaningful life.
🔍 Can’t find it right away? That’s perfectly okay. Ikigai is discovered through exploration, action, and listening to yourself. Take your time—your time.