“Ikigai” (Ikigai, raison d’être) is a Japanese concept that combines the words “iki” (live, meaning “life” or “to live”) and “gai” (kai, meaning “worth” or “value”). or “value”). While there’s no direct English equivalent, it can be loosely translated as “a reason for being” or “a sense of purpose in life. Here’s an explanation for those unfamiliar with Japanese culture: “The Japanese culture is a culture of the mind.
-
Personal Fulfillment: Ikigai is often described as something that gives a person a sense of fulfillment, happiness, or meaning in life. It’s deeply personal and varies from individual to individual.
-
Intersection of Passions and Talents: Ikigai is thought to be found at the intersection of what one loves, what one is good at, what the world needs, and what one can be paid for. It’s about finding a balance between personal passion, skill, societal contribution, and livelihood.
It is not traditional interpretion. It is appeared in “Ikigai: The Japanese secret to a long and happy life” HĂ©ctor GarcĂa, Francesc Miralles(2016).
-
Cultural Significance: In Japanese culture, finding one’s ikigai is considered essential to a well-lived life. It’s not just about professional success but encompasses all aspects of life, including hobbies, family, and social roles.
-
Ikigai in Everyday Life: Unlike some Western concepts of finding a singular life purpose, ikigai can be found in everyday activities and small joys. It emphasizes finding value and satisfaction in daily life.
-
Health and Longevity: The concept of ikigai is often cited in discussions about the longevity of people in regions like Okinawa, where there are high numbers of centenarians. A strong sense of ikigai is believed to contribute to mental and physical health.
-
Broader Application: While rooted in Japanese culture, the concept of ikigai has gained international interest. It’s seen as a tool for personal development, career planning, and finding balance in life’s pursuits.
In summary, ikigai represents a holistic approach to life, integrating personal happiness, societal contribution, and fulfillment. It’s a guiding principle for living a balanced and meaningful life, deeply embedded in Japanese culture and resonating with people around the world.
This page is auto-translated from /nishio/Ikigai using DeepL. If you looks something interesting but the auto-translated English is not good enough to understand it, feel free to let me know at @nishio_en. I’m very happy to spread my thought to non-Japanese readers.