Ikigai, a beautiful Japanese term, translates to "what brings meaning to your life." It can be found in spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, or even in your work and volunteering efforts.
Simple Examples of Ikigai
It can be anything as long as it makes you happy. We don't have to judge ourselves or someone else.
"My ikigai is playing with my grandson."
"My ikigai is traveling the world."
"My ikigai is volunteer work helping people with disabilities."
The Western Interpretation vs. Traditional Concept
You may have seen a Venn diagram with four circles representing:
1. What you love
2. What you're good at
3. What the world needs
4. What you can be paid for
However, in the Japanese original concept, your ikigai doesn't have to be what the world needs or what pays you; it can be anything that enriches your life. If it adds value to your life, it's your ikigai.
Blue Zone: Okinawa
Ikigai plays a significant role in the longevity of people in Okinawa, southern Japan. Okinawa is renowned for having one of the highest concentrations of centenarians in the world, and their lifestyle and cultural values are deeply intertwined with the principles of ikigai.
Health Benefits
Embracing ikigai positively impacts your health and longevity. Studies reveal that seniors with hobbies and a sense of ikigai live longer, healthier lives, maintaining independence in their daily activities.
Imagine this: if you have something to do that you love, and you can do it whenever you like, isn't life already brilliant?
Discovering Your Ikigai
Your Ikigai Is Already Within You
Don't think too much. In your life so far, you have surely encountered at least a couple of things or people who you like. They can be your ikigai.
Sounds easy? Think about what activities bring you joy, what makes you happy, and what you wish to continue doing. Your answers are your ikigai – it's that simple and personal.
The Superpower of Ikigai: Contributing to Others' Happiness
"The greatest joy for a person is making others happy."
—Takashi Yanase (Anpanman Manga Creator)
People are designed to be happy when they can make others happy. To amplify the benefits of your ikigai, think about how your passions can bring joy to others. Helping others naturally triggers happiness in us.
The Seven Acts of Giving
For those who think they have nothing to offer, I'd like to introduce one of the Buddha's teachings that may encourage you.
It is about "the seven acts of giving for those without material wealth," which states that there are seven gifts we can give even though we don't have money.
1. The Gift of Kind Eyes: Offering a gentle and kind gaze to others
2. The Gift of a Warm Smile: Sharing a warm and friendly expression
3. The Gift of Kind Words: Speaking kind and thoughtful words
4. The Gift of Physical Assistance: Helping others through actions or physical support
5. The Gift of a Compassionate Heart: Sharing understanding and empathy with others
6. The Gift of Offering Space: Providing your seat or space to someone in need
7. The Gift of Shelter or Accommodation: Offering shelter or a safe place for others
Did you find at least one thing you could do?
Conclusion
In essence, your ikigai is a personal journey, unique to you. It's about finding fulfillment in what you love and what makes others happy. Take a moment to reflect on what truly brings you happiness – you are the only one in the world who can find your ikigai.
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