Ikigai: Finding Purpose

Ikigai is a Japanese concept referring to the sources that bring value to and make life worthwhile. Ikigai refers both to the sources as well as a state of mind that brings Ikigai, commonly called Ikigai-kan. Relating to happiness, Ikigai enhances self-worth and is future-orientated, based on an individual's values. Ikigai helps explore purpose by considering 4 main areas: Passion, Vocation, Mission, and Profession. These four areas and reflection questions to explore your own Ikigai are presented in the diagram below:

Simply summed by the words of Mitsuhashi (2018), “ikigai is the action we take in pursuit of happiness.”

In the box below, share your reflections regarding what Ikigai means to you and what your purpose is.