Dinesh Mohanraj
Introduction:
What is an Ikigai?
Ikigai, a Japanese concept that translates to “a reason for being,” is a powerful tool for finding purpose and fulfillment in life. Combining what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for, Ikigai is a roadmap to a more meaningful existence. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll explore how to identify your Ikigai and embark on a journey toward a purposeful life.
Step 1: What do you love? Self-Reflection – Know Thyself:
Take the time to reflect on your passions, interests, and values. What activities make you lose track of time? What are the things you’ve always been drawn to, even as a child? Understanding yourself is the first step towards uncovering your Ikigai.
Example: I love being a leader and teaching others. Example: Coaching and Consulting.
Step 2: Identify Your Strengths:
Make a list of your skills, talents, and strengths. What are the things that come naturally to you? Consider both your professional skills and personal strengths. This step will help you recognize what you excel at and what brings you a sense of accomplishment.
Example: I had a decade of experience in both Corporate and Startup from around the globe, and I used this to train others.
Step 3: Determine What the World Needs:
Explore the needs of the world around you. What are the pressing issues or problems that resonate with you? Finding the intersection between what you love and what the world requires is crucial for discovering your Ikigai. This step involves looking beyond personal desires and considering how you can contribute to the greater good.
Example: During my work, I found that many of them require coaching apart from their regular on-job training and there’s a huge demand for it.
Step 4: Assess What You Can Be Paid For:
While passion and contribution are essential, sustaining yourself financially is also crucial. Identify areas where your skills and interests align with potential career opportunities. This step ensures that your Ikigai is not only personally fulfilling but also sustainable in the long run.
Example: Currently, I am paid for my passion, and people pay for my Consulting and Coaching, which I love doing.
Step 5: Find the Intersection – Your Ikigai Sweet Spot:
Create a visual representation, such as a Venn diagram, to bring together the elements of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world requires, and what you can be paid for. The overlap of these elements is your Ikigai sweet spot – the convergence of passion, vocation, mission, and profession.
Example: Consulting and Coaching
Step 6: Experiment and Explore:
Once you have a clearer picture of your Ikigai, start experimenting with small steps. This could involve trying out new hobbies, taking on projects aligned with your purpose, or exploring educational opportunities. Be open to adjustments as you learn more about what truly resonates with you.
Example: I initially started my Coaching business through WhatsApp and once it started giving revenue I developed a website and expanded through Social Media
Step 7: Seek Feedback and Iterate:
Share your thoughts and ideas with trusted friends, mentors, or advisors. Seeking feedback can provide valuable insights and help refine your understanding of your Ikigai. Use this input to iterate and make necessary adjustments to align your pursuits more closely with your purpose.
Example: Currently, I am getting regular feedback from students and we are continuously updating our content.
Conclusion:
Discovering your Ikigai is a transformative journey that requires self-reflection, exploration, and a willingness to align your passions with the needs of the world. By following these steps, you can unlock the door to a more purposeful and fulfilling life, guided by the profound wisdom of Ikigai. Embrace the process, be patient with yourself, and let the journey towards your Ikigai unfold organically.
Do you need help finding your IKIGAI, please contact me for one-on-one coaching or register for my workshop at https://energyvibes.in/energyvibes-workshop/
References:
Books https://amzn.to/3QXkABL
What is an Ikigai or its concept?
Ikigai, a Japanese concept that translates to “a reason for being,” is a powerful tool for finding purpose and fulfillment in life. Combining what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for, Ikigai is a roadmap to a more meaningful existence.
What is my Ikigai?
To find your Ikigai, begin with self-reflection. Identify your passions, strengths, and values. Explore what the world needs and potential avenues for financial sustenance. Seek the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world requires, and what you can be paid for. Experiment, take small steps, and be open to adjustments. Share your thoughts with trusted individuals for feedback. Iterate, refine, and align your pursuits with your unique purpose. Your Ikigai lies at the confluence of passion, vocation, mission, and profession, guiding you toward a life of fulfillment, meaning, and harmonious balance. Use the 7-step guide given in this article to find your ikigai.
How Ikigai can help us?
Ikigai serves as a profound guide, aligning passion, vocation, mission, and profession. It empowers us to discover purpose, fostering a life of fulfillment and balance. By understanding and living our Ikigai, we unlock the keys to sustained happiness, motivation, and a meaningful existence.
Review of Ikigai book
The Ikigai book is a transformative masterpiece, seamlessly blending ancient wisdom with modern principles. Through clear insights and practical guidance, it navigates readers towards discovering purpose, passion, and a fulfilling life. A compelling read that inspires self-discovery and meaningful living.
What are the 4 rules or pillars of Ikigai
The concept of Ikigai is often distilled into four fundamental rules:
Do What You Love (Passion): Engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment, aligning with your deepest interests and passions.
Do What You’re Good At (Vocation): Identify and leverage your strengths and skills to excel in your pursuits, contributing to a sense of accomplishment.
Do What the World Needs (Mission): Find a purpose that serves a greater good or addresses societal needs, fostering a sense of contribution and impact.
Do What You Can Be Paid For (Profession): Seek financial sustainability by aligning your endeavors with market demands and opportunities, ensuring a viable and rewarding career.
