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As most of you will have become accustomed to, I pick up IDEAS from everywhere. Books, podcasts, billboards, overheard train conversations. I have been privileged to have spoken with some pretty special people over the years. One of these was David CM Carter, who is widely regarded as one of the world’s foremost coaches & mentors. He founded Entelechy Academy and I got to interview him a while ago. Just before we interviewed him, I read Ikigai by Hector Garcia
I know that this thought is nothing brand new but I do think it needs resharing for those who haven’t heard about it, or more likely, have heard it but need reminding that we can live in a space where we are thriving. It make take some time to get there but the truth is, we can get there.
We all need meaning in our lives.
There's a Japanese concept that acts as a strategy to finding it: ikigai. This term, which roughly translates to “your reason for being,” isn’t just about finding a career or hobby you enjoy. It’s about discovering your unique place at the intersection of passion, skill, need, and reward. It’s interlocking concentric circles around four pillars:
What You Love (Your Passion): This is the heart of ikigai. It's about identifying what truly excites you, what you can spend hours doing without feeling the strain. This could be anything from playing music, creating art, to innovating in technology. Your passion is something that brings you joy, energy, and enthusiasm.
What You Are Good At (Your Vocation): This asks you to explore your talents and skills. These are activities or tasks that come naturally to you, where you excel without excessive effort. It might be your knack for communication, your analytical mind, or your creative flair. Identifying these skills is crucial, as they are the tools through which you can express your passion.
What the World Needs (Your Mission): Ikigai is not just inward-looking; it’s also about looking outwards and finding where your passions and skills meet the world's needs. This could mean providing innovative solutions, inspiring others, or contributing to societal welfare. It’s about feeling that your work serves a greater purpose and has a positive impact on others.
What You Can Be Paid For (Your Profession): Lastly, ikigai encompasses the practical aspect of life – making a living. It’s about finding a way to monetise your passion and skills in a way that aligns with your mission. This could involve traditional employment, entrepreneurship, or freelance work. The goal is to find a way to sustain yourself while doing what you love and serving the world.
Finding your ikigai is a deeply personal journey that involves self-reflection, experimentation, and, often, a willingness to step out of your comfort zone. It’s about balancing these four elements to create a life that is not only fulfilling but also sustainable and impactful. In embracing ikigai, you’re choosing to live a life that is true to who you are, making every day meaningful and satisfying.
The true essence of ikigai lies in the balance and harmony of these four elements. It’s not just about finding a job you love or a hobby that pays. It’s about a deeper sense of satisfaction and meaning in what you do, contributing to the world while sustaining your livelihood.
It’s a path of trial and error, discovery, and realisation.
Your ikigai doesn’t have to be grand or world-changing. It could be as simple as teaching, gardening, or coding – as long as it fulfils you and contributes in some way. It’s about finding joy and purpose in everyday activities.
Against the cacophony of the pursuit of material success, ikigai reminds us to seek harmony and fulfilment. It’s a concept that doesn’t promise instant gratification but offers a path to long-term joy and satisfaction in both personal and professional life.
As a little nota bene, I had a brilliant session with my own coach, Stefan Powell, and I got to give him an update on where I was at. As I unpacked it, and he clapped, smiled and wrote loads down, we both realised that I am closer to my ikigai than ever before. I don’t always shout about how blessed I am to do things I love that make a difference and give me freedom to pursue what really matters to me: becoming famous in my own home and building relationships with my kids where they choose to spend time with me even when they don’t have to. Thank you to those of you who help make that happen - I am humbled and honoured. Genuinely.
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