Nov 5, 2023 3 min read purpose

IKIGAI : The Magic Junction

Originating from Japan, Ikigai is a robust framework that helps individuals find purpose and meaning in their lives by aligning four key elements: what they love, what they are good at, what the world needs, and what they can be paid for.

By finding the intersection of these elements, you can discover your unique purpose and create a fulfilling life.

For example, someone who loves writing is skilled at communication, recognizes the need for meaningful stories in society, and can be paid as a professional writer can find their purpose in creating impactful narratives that inspire others.

Ikigai is not just about finding a job or pursuing hobbies but about finding a more profound sense of purpose and fulfilment. It emphasizes the importance of joy and satisfaction in daily activities. Let's delve into each component of the Ikigai framework:

What you love refers to your passions, interests, and activities that bring you joy and make you feel alive. It involves identifying the things you genuinely enjoy doing that bring fulfilment.

For example, someone may be passionate about writing, painting, or helping others. These activities ignite their enthusiasm and bring them a deep sense of satisfaction.

What you are good at: This component focuses on your skills, talents, and areas of expertise. It involves recognizing your strengths and abilities and the activities in which you excel.

For instance, someone may be skilled at communication, problem-solving, or organizing. These abilities can be harnessed to impact and contribute to the world positively.

What the world needs: This element explores the needs, problems, and challenges around you. It involves identifying the areas where you can make a difference and contribute to the well-being of others.

For example, the world may need innovative solutions for environmental sustainability, mental health support, or educational access. By understanding these needs, you can align your purpose with positively impacting these areas.

What you can be paid for: This component focuses on the practical aspect of sustaining yourself financially. It involves identifying the skills, knowledge, or expertise that can be monetized.

For instance, someone may be able to teach, consult, or create products that people are willing to pay for. By leveraging these skills, they can support themselves while pursuing their purpose.

When all four elements of Ikigai align, you can find their unique purpose and experience a deep sense of fulfilment. Here are a few examples of how Ikigai can be applied in the context of the Second Act:

Example 1: Entrepreneurial Endeavors: Suppose someone loves cooking, is skilled at creating delicious recipes, recognizes the growing need for healthy and convenient meal options, and can start a food delivery business. By combining their passion, skills, market demand, and the potential for financial sustainability, they can create a purpose-driven business that brings nutritious meals to people's doorsteps.
Example 2: Nonprofit or Social Impact Work: Imagine someone who loves working with children, is skilled at teaching and mentoring, recognizes the need for educational support in underserved communities, and can secure funding for nonprofit initiatives. They can establish a nonprofit organization that provides educational resources and support to needy children, aligning their passion, skills, societal needs, and financial sustainability.
Example 3: Creative Pursuits: Suppose someone loves storytelling, is skilled at writing and illustrating, recognizes the need for diverse and inclusive children's books, and can earn income through publishing and book sales. They can embark on creating and publishing children's books that promote diversity, inclusion, and positive values, aligning their passion, skills, societal needs, and financial sustainability.

These examples demonstrate how Ikigai can guide individuals in finding their purpose and creating a fulfilling Second Act. By aligning what they love, what they are good at, what the world needs, and what they can be paid for, individuals can embark on a path that brings meaning, joy, and a sense of contribution to their lives and the lives of others.

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