How To Find And Do Work That You Love (Ikigai)
Ikigai is a Japanese concept about finding your individual purpose, or in other words: “what is worth living for”, or “your reason for getting up every morning”. It covers 4 aspects that will help you find a job to love.
The concept of ikigai as a purpose in life with both personal and social dimensions is captured by the well-known ikigai diagram. This diagram includes overlapping spheres covering:
- What do I love?
- What am I really good at?
- What does the world need?
- What can I earn money with?
1.What do I love?
Think about what you really like to do.
- What makes you tick?
- What touches you?
- What do you enjoy doing?
2.What am I really good at?
This sphere includes anything you are particularly good at, such as skills you’ve learned, hobbies you’ve pursued, talents you’ve shown since an early age, etc. What you are good at might to be, for example, playing the piano, being empathic, public speaking, sports, brain surgery, or painting portraits.
3.What does the world need?
- Is there something helpful you can do for others?
- What activities are there that would have a positive effect on the world?
- What would your children/grandchildren be proud of?
4.What can I earn money with?
This dimension of the diagram also refers to the world or society at large, in that it involves what someone else is willing to pay you for or “what the market will bear.” You might be passionate about writing poetry or very good at rock climbing, but this does not necessarily mean you can get paid for it.
What is your Ikigai?
Drow the Ikigai worksheet, grab a pen, and free up at least one hour to think about these questions. Once you’re finished, discuss your ideas and thoughts with a supportive friend or family member. Find someone that will fully listen to you, challenge you and add value to your thinking.
