Why do you get up in the morning?
Why do you get up in the morning?
This simple yet profound question lies at the heart of Ikigai, as we explore the true essence of this concept in the lives of the people of Okinawa.
But is the question entirely accurate? Our ikigai tests, with over 3000 participants, have yielded diverse responses, with some stating,
"Because I have to."
"I have to do the work."
"I have to go to the bathroom."
"I have to bring my kids to school."
"I have to earn money."
These answers seem to align more with a Western interpretation of Ikigai, often associated with the popular Venn diagram and the four questions:
What am I good at?
What am I passionate about?
What does the world need?
What can I get paid for?
However, it's essential to emphasize that this diagram does not capture the true essence of Ikigai. Created by the Spanish astrologer Andrés Zuzunaga about a decade ago, it was initially titled "Propósito," meaning "purpose."
We must be cautious about linking our life's meaning solely to external needs and financial gain. This approach strays from the authentic Japanese meaning of Ikigai.
The true essence of Ikigai lies in becoming aware of the values that already enrich our lives.
It invites us to find meaning in the simplicity of our daily existence.
Ikigai encourages us to start small, discovering the richness surrounding us.
It urges us to appreciate what is already present in our lives, rather than striving for more material possessions and external pleasures, as studies show that such pursuits do not guarantee lasting happiness.
Passion and motivation arise from action, not the other way around.
Finding meaning on paper is a very questionable approach.
We can learn from the wisdom of Mieko Kamiya, the founder of Ikigai Psychology, and Viktor Frankl, who emphasized existential psychology and logotherapy.
True motivation emerges from actions aligned with our values, leading to the discovery of meaning in our everyday lives.
So what can we do now?
The answer lies in the simplest acts:
Become aware of the abundance that already surrounds us.
Create time and space (the Japanese concept of "Ma") to explore the small and significant riches in our lives.
Cultivate gratitude for the little things that often go unnoticed:
A smile from a neighbour.
A tiny droplet on a leaf 🌿.
A cherished memory triggered by revisiting old photographs.
The realization of our freedom to make choices.
„Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedom to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.“
Rediscovering the value of life's simplest moments can infuse us with a profound sense of purpose and motivation.
So, what can we actively do to embrace Ikigai awareness?
🚶♂️ Take a walk and contemplate.
📝 Write down ten or more positive occurrences from the past days.
🧠 Recall the small encounters that might have slipped our minds.
In reflecting on these experiences, ask ourselves:
What do they reveal about us?
What life lessons do they hold?
What qualities can we nurture from these encounters?
I wish you the space and time to discover many Ikigai moments.
