The term is not very familiar to the Western world, but for those who live on the other side of the globe, Ikigai is one of the pillar concepts of any existence. Even not understand its meaning, Ikigai is present in the principle of every action, emotion and thought that guides us.
What is your ‘Ikigai’?
What is Ikiagi after all?
Ikigai is the junction of two Japanese terms "iki" (life) and "gai" (value). In a free translation, Ikigai – therefore – can be understood as our reason for living: the values that underpin our life, complete us and make our experience full.
The concept of the word comes from Okinawa, a group of islands in Southern Japan, where residents live above average life expectancy, even by Japanese standards. The longevity of that region – according to their own residents – is closely linked to Ikigai, as Ken Mogi, author of books on the subject, says: "it is important to identify what gives you pleasure, because they give purpose to life and lead to a long and happy existence."
Finding your Ikigai
You don't have to move mountains to have a happy life. Many are obsessed with great success, giant goals, and material fullness. However, Ikigai may be in that cup of coffee you have in the morning, or those 15 minutes you take care of your garden. Its present in all things, especially the little acts of happiness every day.
To find it, there is no recipe or map. But you can try to get rid of some of the burden of the pressure. analyze what is excessive and let it go. Rescue your childhood dreams, youth desires... what have you always loved to do? What were your dreams and what did they become?
Look inside to modify what surrounds you on the outside!
