How to Figure Out What to Do With Your Life (Find Your Ikigai)
Have you ever found yourself stuck in a maze of existential questions, wondering what the heck you should be doing with your life?
What Is Ikigai?
Before we go any further, let's decode the term "Ikigai." Hailing from the land of the rising sun, Japan, it's a fusion of two words: "iki" (life) and "gai" (value or worth).
In essence, it's the art of finding your reason for being. Imagine your passions, talents, and the things that make you jump out of bed every morning all bundled up into one harmonious purpose.
That's Ikigai! The pronunciation of the word ikigai is ee-kee-guy. Think about it as your life’s goal or your reason to live. Each person’s Ikigai is different because we all have unique stories and desires.
The Four Pillars of Ikigai
Ikigai isn't just a concept; it's a practical roadmap to self-discovery. It stands on four sturdy pillars:
Passion (What You Love)
Think about what sets your heart on fire. What hobbies, interests, and activities make time disappear? Maybe it's painting, hiking, cooking, or even making intricate paper planes. Your passion is your compass on this adventure.
Mission (What the World Needs)
Now, turn your attention outward. What problems, big or small, do you want to solve? Whether it's alleviating poverty, spreading kindness, or saving the planet, your mission is your contribution to the greater good.
Vocation (What You're Good At)
Take stock of your skills and talents. What are you naturally good at? It could be your gift for writing, your knack for connecting with people, or your ability to solve complex problems. Your vocation is your unique skill set.
Profession (What You Can Be Paid For)
Lastly, consider what the world is willing to pay you for. It's the practical side of the equation. Your profession is your livelihood, the means to sustain yourself.
Finding the Sweet Spot
Imagine these four pillars as overlapping circles in a Venn diagram. Your Ikigai, your purpose, resides at the intersection of all these circles. It's where your passion meets your mission, your vocation, and your profession. It's the "sweet spot" where your life feels meaningful, fulfilling, and downright awesome.
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Before you continue, I thought you might like to download my free worksheet on how to find your Ikigai.
The Art of Self-Reflection
Now, let's get our hands dirty with some soul-searching exercises:
Journal Your Heart Out: Grab a journal and start jotting down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Write about your dreams, your fears, your wildest fantasies, and your daily routines. It's like a treasure hunt for your innermost desires.
Talk to Yourself: Yes, you heard that right! Have a deep, honest conversation with yourself. Ask questions like, "What brings me joy?" "What makes me feel alive?" "What would I do if money were no object?" Your inner voice holds valuable clues.
Get Feedback: Reach out to friends, family, and mentors. They often see things in us that we can't see in ourselves. Ask them about your strengths, your quirks, and how they perceive your passions and talents.
Embrace the Journey
Finding your Ikigai isn't a one-day expedition; it's a lifelong journey. Along the way, you'll encounter roadblocks, detours, and maybe even a few unexpected surprises. Embrace the adventure, for it's these twists and turns that shape your unique path.
Never Stop Exploring
Your Ikigai isn't set in stone. As you grow and evolve, so might your purpose. Don't be afraid to explore new interests, acquire new skills, and adapt to changing circumstances. Remember, it's about the journey, not just the destination.
The Joy of Living with Ikigai
Finally, when you find your Ikigai, life takes on a whole new meaning. Each day becomes an opportunity to pursue your passions, make a positive impact, utilize your talents, and sustain yourself. It's like living in a perpetual state of "flow," where time flies by, and happiness reigns supreme.
Final Thoughts
I hope you liked this post and it reminded you that finding your Ikigai (your purpose) is worth it. In a world full of possibilities, your special purpose is waiting for you to find it.
Sometimes you need to take a moment to reflect and discover the things that make you passionate and align with your strengths. Happy exploring!
Take care,
-Emilia ♡
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