Insights from our Free Ikigai Test
Over the years, our free Ikigai test has amassed over 3,500 entries, providing a rich tapestry of insights into people's passions, motivations, and desires. Here's a condensed overview of the findings:
1. Joyful Memories from the Past:
Family and specific family members top the list.
Activities like playing games, sports, and spending time with friends are cherished.
Nature, creativity, school memories, and traveling also hold special places in people's hearts.
2. Life-Defining Emotional Events:
Family dynamics, relationships, challenges, loss, and personal growth are pivotal.
Travel, career, mental health, and cultural experiences also shape identities.
3. The Role of Gratitude:
Emotional well-being, relationships, nature, personal growth, and material well-being are areas where gratitude is most felt.
Daily pleasures, spirituality, work, and unique personal experiences also evoke gratitude.
4. Authentic Self Expression:
Being alone or with close family and friends allows most to be their true selves.
Engaging in activities, being in nature, and certain professional roles also foster authenticity.
5. Personal Growth and Learning:
Future aspirations, continuous learning, and self-motivation are key drivers.
Relationships, nature, creativity, motivation, well-being, travel, and work also play roles in personal evolution.
6. Sources of Hope and Support:
Spiritual beliefs, self-reliance, family, nature, hobbies, social connections, optimism, coping mechanisms, and community involvement provide hope.
7. Moments of True Blossoming:
Artistic activities, nature, personal reflection, social interactions, achievements, relaxation, and various other unique experiences make individuals feel most alive.
8. Desired Changes and Letting Go:
Personal growth, relationships, career, lifestyle, emotional well-being, material aspects, and miscellaneous personal challenges are areas where change is sought.
9. Anticipated Future Events:
Professional achievements, life milestones, social events, personal growth, material goals, and various other personal events are eagerly awaited.
10. Vision of a Changed Future:
Personal growth, financial stability, travel, family, career, nature, art, health, community involvement, and dreams are the visions that invigorate individuals the most.
tl;dr – here ist a more detailed overview of the topics:
01. When I remember my childhood or youth, what moments still bring me joy today?
Here are the topics in order of the mentions
Family (and specific family members like grandparents, mom, dad)
Playing (games, sports, with friends)
Friends
Nature (beach, sea, forest, outdoors)
Creativity (drawing, painting, writing, crafting)
School (and related activities like studying, teachers, high school)
Traveling (and related terms like adventure, exploring)
Dancing
Music (listening, playing, singing)
Animals (pets, dogs, cats)
Reading (books, novels)
Memories (childhood, past moments)
Sports (specific sports like football, basketball, cricket)
Freedom
Learning (new skills, new things)
02. Looking back over my entire life, what emotional events have made me the person I am today?
Family Dynamics: Many respondents mentioned events related to their family, such as parents' divorce, relationships with parents, siblings, and grandparents, and the impact of family decisions on their lives.
Relationships and Heartbreaks: Several responses highlighted the significance of romantic relationships, both positive experiences like falling in love and negative ones like breakups or betrayals.
Challenges and Overcoming Adversity: Many individuals pointed out specific challenges they faced, such as illnesses, financial struggles, discrimination, and personal failures. The theme of resilience and overcoming these challenges was evident.
Loss and Grief: The death of loved ones, including parents, grandparents, friends, and partners, was a recurring topic, emphasizing the profound impact of grief on personal development.
Childhood Experiences: Numerous respondents reflected on their childhood, mentioning events like bullying, school experiences, childhood traumas, and early life decisions.
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery: Some individuals discussed their journeys of self-discovery, personal growth, and the realization of their own values and beliefs.
Travel and Relocation: Moving to different countries or cities, traveling, and the experiences gained from these journeys were mentioned by several respondents.
Career and Education: Achievements in education, career challenges, and professional experiences played a significant role in the personal development of some individuals.
Mental Health: Issues related to mental health, including depression, anxiety, and coping mechanisms, were highlighted by several respondents.
Cultural and Social Experiences: Some individuals discussed the impact of cultural shifts, societal norms, and experiences of discrimination or injustice on their personal growth.
Positive Support Systems: The importance of friendships, support from loved ones, and positive influences was evident in many responses.
Specific Life Events: Some respondents pointed out specific events, such as giving birth, personal achievements, or unique experiences, that had a profound impact on their lives.
Spirituality and Faith: A few individuals mentioned the role of spirituality, faith, and religious experiences in shaping their personalities.
Hobbies and Passions: Activities like music, art, dance, and sports were mentioned as influential factors in personal development.
Languages and Communication: Some responses were in languages other than English, indicating the significance of cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
What does a sense of gratitude bring to my daily life today?
Emotional Well-being:
Strength and resilience
Satisfaction and contentment
Calmness and peace
Happiness and joy
Hope and positivity
Appreciation and acknowledgment
Relationships:
Family and loved ones
Friendships and interactions
Partners and significant others
Mentors and guides
Nature and Environment:
Beauty of nature (trees, ocean, sunshine, etc.)
Animals (pets, birds, etc.)
Weather and surroundings
Personal Growth and Achievements:
Overcoming challenges
Learning and education
Personal accomplishments and milestones
Self-awareness and self-expression
Material and Physical Well-being:
Health and fitness
Wealth and financial security
Home and shelter
Food and nourishment
Daily Pleasures:
Morning coffee
Music and art
Travel and new experiences
Hobbies and activities
Spirituality and Faith:
Connection with a higher power or the universe
Spiritual journeys and practices
Sense of purpose and meaning
Work and Career:
Job satisfaction
Opportunities and growth
Helping and making a difference
Further topics:
Specific personal experiences or memories
Cultural or regional expressions of gratitude
Unique individual sentiments
When can I really be myself?
Being alone
Many respondents feel they can truly be themselves when they are alone. This theme is prevalent in the answers and includes variations such as being alone at home, in nature, or during specific activities like writing, drawing, or meditating.
With Family and Friends
A significant number of answers indicate that people feel most like themselves when they are with close family and friends. This includes being with parents, siblings, partners, or old friends who understand and accept them.
Engaging in Activities
Some respondents find themselves most authentic when engaging in specific activities or hobbies. This includes dancing, singing, creating art, cooking, gardening, traveling, and more.
In Nature
Being in nature or near bodies of water is a recurring theme. People feel connected to themselves when they are in natural surroundings, whether it's hiking, walking near the ocean, or meditating in the garden.
At Work or in Leadership Roles
A few answers reflect that individuals feel like themselves when they are in professional or leadership roles. This includes being a team leader, teaching, training, or working in specific fields like the medical profession.
In Specific Locations
Some answers mention specific locations such as home, garden, bedroom, or other personal spaces where individuals feel they can be themselves.
With Animals
A few respondents mention feeling closest to themselves when they are with animals, such as dogs or horses.
In Spiritual or Reflective Moments
Some answers reflect a spiritual or reflective connection, such as praying to God, meditating, journaling, or engaging in deep thoughts.
Cultural and Language Specific Responses
There are answers in different languages and cultural contexts that may reflect unique ways of expressing oneself.
Uncertain or Ambiguous Responses
A small number of answers are uncertain or ambiguous, such as "?" or "Don't know," indicating that the individual may not have a clear understanding of when they can truly be themselves.
Personal Growth & Learning:
Future aspirations
Desire to learn and improve
New experiences and technologies
Taking classes and structured activities
Reflecting and facing fears
Constant self-education
Curiosity and exploration
Learning from mistakes and values
Self-motivation and development
Continuous learning and new skills
Seeking knowledge and personal development
Learning new things and self-teaching
Relationships & Social Connections:
Husband, children, family, and friends
People who challenge and inspire
Meeting new people and hearing their stories
Spending time with loved ones
Positive interactions and human connections
Deep connections with others
Volunteering and community involvement
Nature & Environment:
Nature, woods, and outdoors
Travel and new locations
Sunlight and beauty of the moment
Time outside and discovering new places
Nature, exploring, and hiking
Creativity & Expression:
Music, books, and art
Writing, journaling, and songwriting
Creative projects and crafts
Photography and illustrations
Dance and musicality
Motivation & Drive:
Goals and ambitions
Living with integrity and perseverance
Hope and dreams
Facing challenges and pushing limits
Desire for success and achievements
Well-being & Mental Health:
Meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation
Physical activity and fitness
Well-being and self-care routines
Yoga and grounding exercises
Mental and emotional movement
Travel & Exploration:
Traveling, exploring, and adventures
New experiences and perspectives
Visiting new places and cultures
Planning for trips and vacations
Work & Career:
Job satisfaction and challenges
Achieving tasks and goals
Seeking opportunities and promotions
Passion for work and career growth
Miscellaneous:
Honesty, integrity, and values
Routine and spontaneity
Money, happiness, and financial freedom
Sports, games, and hobbies
Technology and innovations
What gives me hope and support even on difficult days?
Spiritual & Religious Beliefs:
Faith in God/Allah
Spirituality
Prayers
Buddhism
Religion
Self-Reliance & Personal Growth:
Self-belief
Inner strength
Positive mindset
Self-motivation
Personal accomplishments
Family & Loved Ones:
Family members (e.g., mom, siblings, husband, children)
Partner/boyfriend/girlfriend
Loved ones
Nature & Environment:
Nature walks
Ocean
Sunsets
Animals (e.g., cats, dogs)
Plants
Entertainment & Hobbies:
Music
Movies
Korean dramas
Reading
Art
Social & Community:
Friends
Community
Support groups
Conversations with others
Stories of others overcoming adversity
Future & Optimism:
Hope for a better future
Dreams and goals
Belief in change and progress
Vision of success
Coping Mechanisms & Activities:
Meditation
Yoga
Journaling
Therapy
Retail therapy
Miscellaneous:
Philosophical beliefs
Personal routines
Work and professional life
Inspirational figures (e.g., BTS, Jeon Jungkook)
Random acts of kindness
When do I blossom? When do I become one with the moment and forget everything around me?
1. Artistic and Creative Activities:
Doing business or speaking
Listening to music
Creating, dancing, painting
Freestyling
Singing, playing guitar
Drawing, designing
Writing, presenting
Playing musical instruments
Art workshops, sewing, pattern cutting
Video editing, process design
Painting, modeling, crafting
2. Nature and Outdoors:
Enjoying nature
Hiking in jungles
Competing in sports, outdoors
Traveling, exploring new places
Watching sunrise and sunset
Being in the mountains, woods
Gardening, walking in nature
Beach, ocean bathing, swimming in a pond
3. Personal Growth and Reflection:
Deep conversation about life or transformation
Meditation, self-discovery
Facing fears, understanding love
Achieving personal goals, success
Learning, studying (e.g., Biologi dan Alam)
Being authentic, confident
Being in the flow, lost in work
Practicing yoga, breathwork
4. Social Interactions:
Being with friends, loved ones
Leading a team, mentoring
Conversations, discussions
Helping others, supporting, coaching
Being with children, guiding them
Social meetings, gatherings
5. Achievements and Recognition:
Achieving great success, personal goals
Getting good grades, employee of the month
Achieving something challenging
Being recognized, appreciated
6. Relaxation and Leisure:
Exercising, sports
Traveling, vacations
Watching movies, reading
Gaming, playing video games
Dancing, enjoying moments
7. Miscellaneous:
Being independent, free
Feeling safe, relaxed
Being in a specific place (e.g., airport, store)
Specific events or memories (e.g., with a loved one)
Specific feelings (e.g., happiness, passion)
What things do I invest energy in that are absolutely worth the effort? What are current things? What future things are worth the effort?
Self-Improvement & Personal Growth:
Self-discovery, skill acquisition, mindset
Emotional intelligence, setting boundaries
Manifesting life, self therapy, self development
Learning new languages, skills, and knowledge
Personal rituals, habits, and spirituality
Physical & Mental Well-being:
Yoga, dancing, hiking, gardening
Physical training, gym, health, fitness
Healing, therapy, mental calmness
Relationships & Social Connections:
Time with family, partner, friends
Building relationships, helping others
Investing in love life, friendships, community
Education & Learning:
Studying, reading, writing, research
Learning about specific fields (e.g., astrophysics, AI)
Certifications, courses, academic pursuits
Creative & Artistic Pursuits:
Art, music, writing, drawing, crafting
Photography, videography, design
Creative hobbies, DIY projects
Work & Career:
Business development, career goals
Job satisfaction, professional growth
Entrepreneurship, startups, business ideas
Leisure & Hobbies:
Traveling, exploring new places
Cooking, food, attending concerts
Sports, games, entertainment
Nature & Environment:
Landscaping, nature excursions, gardening
Connecting with nature, environmental care
Miscellaneous:
Current activities, future aspirations
Specific interests (e.g., astrophysics, AI)
Cultural or regional specific activities
What am I doing and enjoying, even if the world around me doesn't understand?
Self-Improvement & Personal Growth
Investing in self-discovery and skill acquisition.
Learning new languages and knowledge.
Engaging in well-being and mindset activities.
Pursuing future technologies and relationships.
Seeking emotional intelligence and self-regulation.
Physical & Mental Health
Practicing yoga and physical training.
Engaging in healing, journaling, and therapy.
Investing in mental calmness and self-care.
Pursuing fitness, gym activities, and dancing.
Seeking therapy and emotional satisfaction.
Creative & Artistic Pursuits
Engaging in innovative activities.
Investing in art, music, and writing.
Crafting, journaling, and connecting with nature.
Exploring photography, drawing, and modeling.
Pursuing creative writing, painting, and design.
Relationships & Social Connections
Valuing time with family, partner, and friends.
Building and nurturing relationships.
Investing in friendships, romantic relationships, and community.
Prioritizing family, children, and loved ones.
Engaging in meaningful conversations and networking.
Educational & Professional Goals
Investing in studies, research, and certifications.
Pursuing career goals, business ventures, and job opportunities.
Engaging in workshops, online courses, and academic pursuits.
Seeking knowledge in specific fields like astrophysics, AI, and neuroscience.
Building and expanding businesses.
Hobbies & Leisure Activities
Enjoying reading, dancing, and traveling.
Engaging in gardening, cooking, and nature excursions.
Pursuing hobbies like playing video games, cycling, and baking.
Exploring new places, foods, and experiences.
Investing time in sports, martial arts, and other physical activities.
Spiritual & Mindful Practices
Engaging in meditation, spirituality, and astrology.
Pursuing self-awareness and mindfulness.
Investing time in prayers, rituals, and spiritual growth.
Seeking connection with nature and the universe.
Exploring spiritual teachings and practices.
Community & Social Service
Helping and supporting others in the community.
Engaging in volunteering, teaching, and coaching.
Investing time in community service and social initiatives.
Pursuing activities that enrich the community and elevate individuals.
Offering support, advice, and assistance to those in need.
Miscellaneous
Engaging in unique and diverse activities.
Pursuing individual passions and interests.
Investing time and energy in varied pursuits.
Exploring new and unconventional activities.
Seeking joy and fulfillment in diverse ways.
Where do I wish for change? What can I allow myself to let go of?
Self-improvement and Personal Growth:
Overcoming procrastination
Building confidence and self-esteem
Developing discipline and focus
Minimizing self-doubt and negative self-talk
Overcoming overthinking and anxiety
Relationships and Social Aspects:
Letting go of past hurt and toxic relationships
Seeking meaningful connections
Overcoming the need to please everyone
Setting boundaries and valuing self-worth
Career and Professional Life:
Changing job or career direction
Seeking challenging and fulfilling work
Overcoming fear of failure in professional endeavors
Lifestyle and Habits:
Eliminating bad habits (e.g., alcohol, wasting time)
Building a healthy environment
Overcoming laziness and adopting positive daily routines
Emotional and Mental Well-being:
Letting go of fear, guilt, shame, and regret
Overcoming feelings of inadequacy and self-criticism
Seeking happiness and contentment in the present
Material and External Aspects:
Letting go of materialism and unnecessary possessions
Overcoming the need for external validation and societal pressures
Seeking financial freedom and stability
Miscellaneous:
Overcoming specific personal challenges (e.g., weight issues, perfectionism)
Letting go of past mistakes and focusing on the future
Seeking purpose and passion in life
What future event am I looking forward to today?
Professional & Academic:
Global event speaking
Promotion
Financial stability
PhD & jobs
Business milestones
Life Milestones:
Moving (e.g., France)
Retirement
Marriage & kids
Major celebrations
Social & Recreation:
Parties (e.g., karaoke, with celebrities)
Concerts & festivals
Travel (e.g., Japan, world)
Personal Growth:
Self-improvement goals
Nature activities
Therapy & yoga
Finding purpose
Material Goals:
Property & house purchases
Financial goals (e.g., millionaire)
Miscellaneous:
Family visits
Peace & holidays
Art & cooking activities
Which vision of a changed future makes me feel most alive?
Personal Growth & Success:
Achieving what I deserve
Successful self-improvement
Being successful and accomplished
Achieving everything I aim for
Being on stage performing music
Becoming a better version of myself
Being a successful entrepreneur
Personality development
Being a successful actress
Being successful in customers' eyes
Being a successful business person
Financial Stability & Independence:
Financial freedom
Not worrying about fees and bills
Debt-free
Financially settled
Financially independent
Earning from my own way of healing
Being wealthy and self-reliant
Financial security
Wealth
Travel & Exploration:
Traveling a lot and reading books
Traveling around the world
Exploring new places
Travel retirement to enjoy the world
Traveling and writing about it
Traveling the world without stress
Family & Relationships:
Helping my family
Owning a house for parents
Being with a loving partner
Having a family and hard work
Being with the person I love
Being with people that value me
Spending time with loved ones
Being with people I love and cherish
Career & Work:
Automated systems for admin
Doing something related to art, preferably teaching
Being self-employed and working remotely
Having a stable job
Being an individual contributor
Generating employment as a businessman
Being a brand strategist
Starting my own business
Nature & Environment:
Living in nature
Value small things
Living in harmony with the earth
Being part of nature
Art & Creativity:
Doing art and having an art studio
Being a real curandera and pacha mama
Making movies
Being a creative fashion designer
Health & Well-being:
Expanding spiritual understanding
Being in shape
Being healthy and exploring
Being fit and healthy
Physical fitness and strength
Community & Society:
Making the greatest impact on others' well-being
Working alongside others for the betterment of all
Helping others through knowledge and skills
Helping the world heal
Making a difference in society
Dreams & Aspirations:
Living a dream life
Following dreams and aspirations
Achieving dreams
Independence & Freedom:
Being free and connected
Living life how I want to
Being independent
Freedom to be productive how and where I want
Peace & Happiness:
Living a balanced life
Happiness
Living happily with a husband
Being happy and content
Learning & Growth:
Learning and growing
More learning
Gaining knowledge and experiences
With what contribution can I imagine doing something good for people around me and in the world?
Emotional Support & Listening:
Calm in stress
Listening better
Empathetic approach
Listening and guiding
Listening, discovering, helping
Listening, encouraging, supporting
Listening, understanding, empathy
Listening to others' problems
Emotional support
Counseling and guiding
Teaching & Sharing Knowledge:
Teaching, learning
Self-improvement business
Teaching music
Educating children
Teaching and guiding people
Writing and designing books
Sharing knowledge about self-awareness
Teaching people to grow food
Sharing useful information
Donating & Volunteering:
Gifting data subscription
Donating to the needy
Volunteering to the elderly
Donating, supporting
Donations to those in need
Financial help
Donating and being kind
Donating money, clothes
Volunteering with animals
Volunteering at an orphanage
Art, Music & Creativity:
Art and music therapy
Inspire self-discovery through art
Writing relatable poems
Producing healthy food
Making films, writing stories
Sharing God's word through music
Producing art and culture
Creating art, making things beautiful
Coaching & Mentoring:
Therapy, job coaching, team coaching
Mentoring them on well-being
Coaching and acknowledging oneself
Mentorship
Coaching others to achieve
Helping others achieve
Charity & Philanthropy:
Donating to the old, the poor
Charity sharing
Philanthropist way of living
Charity board joining
Charity work
Giving to charity
Environmental & Sustainability:
Landscaping
Save the environment
Recycling old clothes
Producing less waste
Environmental clean-ups, planting trees
Solving sustainability problems
Spirituality & Healing:
Plant seed of wellness and growth
Spiritual awareness
Healing through difficult times
Intuitive healing knowledge
Healing kids in school
Healing, helping, and having fun
Business & Financial Support:
Automating or eliminating tasks
Financial assistance
Lending money
Monetary support
Financially supporting the poor
Helping people access loans
Advocacy & Rights:
Empowering women
Stand up for people's rights
Voice opinion for the voiceless
Advocating for a fair future
Supporting others in their endeavors
Miscellaneous:
Research in neuroscience, psychology, AI
Investigating
Being fair and understanding
Being kind and understanding
Smile
Being a positive motivation
