How to Find Your Ikigai
How to Find Your Ikigai: 14 Steps to a Life Filled with Meaning and Joy
In “Ikigai – “the reason for being” we looked at what exactly the Japanese concept of “Ikigai” means – that magical intersection between what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what they can pay you for.
Now it’s time to move from theory to practice. How do we incorporate this philosophy into our daily lives and discover our personal Ikigai? The truth is, it’s not a destination, but a journey – a conscious choice to live more fully every day.
Although the term is Japanese, the principles behind it are universal and accessible to each of us. Here are 14 practical steps, inspired by the centenarians of Okinawa, that will guide you on the path to your Ikigai.
Part 1: The Ikigai Philosophy – A Change in Attitude
It all starts with the way we perceive the world and ourselves.
- Leave the urgency behind and embrace a slower pace of life. In a world obsessed with speed and constant busyness, slowing down is a revolutionary act. When we stop rushing, we begin to notice the details, enjoy the moment, and make more conscious decisions. This does not mean laziness, but prioritization.
- Smile more and to everyone. A smile is a universal language that costs nothing but gives a lot. It has the power to change not only your mood, but also that of the people around you. A smile is a small ritual that creates positive energy and opens doors.
- Accept the people around you as they are. Everyone fights their own battle and has their own path. Trying to change others is a source of constant tension. When we accept them with their strengths and weaknesses, we free ourselves from unnecessary expectations and create more harmonious relationships.
- Be grateful for everything that brightens your day. Gratitude is a powerful tool for happiness. Every morning or evening, take a minute to think about 3 things you are grateful for – the sun, a cup of warm coffee, a conversation with a friend. This simple practice retrains your mind to seek the good.
- Live today and now – in the present moment. The past cannot be changed, and the future is unknown. The only thing we truly have is the present moment. Stop regretting yesterday and worrying about tomorrow. Focus on what you are doing now. This is the essence of mindfulness.
Part 2: Daily Habits for Health and Harmony
The body and spirit are inextricably linked. Taking care of the body is also taking care of the mind.</ol start=”6″>
- Stay active, even after you retire. Your Ikigai gives you a reason to get out of bed every day. People who withdraw from everything they used to love to do lose their purpose. Continue to do the things that bring you joy and make you feel useful, regardless of your age.
- When you eat, stop before you are completely full. In Japan, there is a rule “Hara hachi bu” (腹八分), which means eating until you are 80% full. This small difference allows the body to process food more easily, keeps your energy stable and is one of the keys to longevity.
- Get in shape every day with light exercise. You don’t have to run a marathon. A 5-10 minute walk, light gymnastics in the morning, yoga or dancing in the living room is enough. Movement releases endorphins – the hormones of happiness, and keeps your body healthy and flexible.
- Communicate with nature whenever possible. Even a few minutes in the park, among the trees or by the water can recharge your batteries. Nature reminds us of the larger cycles in life and helps us escape from everyday stress.
Part 3: At the Heart of Ikigai – Your Mission and Passion
This is the core around which everything else is built.
- Discover your mission and calling. Ask yourself, “How can I be of service?” Your Ikigai is often about serving others – be it your family, your community, or the world at large. Even the smallest contribution matters.
- Follow your passion. Make a living doing something you love. This is the ideal of Ikigai. Combine what you love with what you are good at. If your job is not your passion, find a hobby that excites you and dedicate your time and energy to it. Sometimes a hobby can become a profession.
- Dream big. Define your dream, think about it and follow it! Don’t be afraid to have big goals. Your dream gives you direction and motivation. Break it down into small, achievable steps and work on them every day. The journey to your dream is often more important than the goal itself.
- Be helpful. Do a few acts of kindness every day. Help a neighbor, give a compliment, share knowledge. Small gestures of kindness create ripples of positivity and connect you to others, giving you a sense of purpose.
- Surround yourself only with good friends. Friends are the family we choose. They are the people we share joys and hardships with. Quality social connections are one of the strongest factors for a long and happy life. Keep these connections alive.
In conclusion
Finding your Ikigai is not a one-time event, but a process of continuous discovery. It lies in small daily rituals, in conscious choices, and in the courage to follow your heart.
Start today. Choose one of these 14 steps and implement it. Even the smallest change can be the beginning of an exciting journey to a happier, healthier, and more meaningful life.
What is your first step toward discovering your Ikigai? Share in the comments!
