Finding Meaning and Purpose at Work
In the last year or so I've become obsessed with Ikigai, the Japanese concept of a sense of purpose or reason for being. I was first exposed to it via the work of Dan Buettner, who researches the places in the world where people live the longest and healthiest, called Blue Zones.
One of the Blue Zones is in Okinawa, Japan and as he interviewed the elders there, they told him about Ikigai.
Here's a graph of what it includes:
As I reflect on my work and support clients in theirs, I like to think of Ikigai as a north star to guide us.
Perhaps you feel like you're already living your Ikigai (hooray!) but if not, you can always take steps in that direction by exploring the 4 key elements:
What are you great at? Each of us has a combination of natural gifts and acquired skills. These are the things that come easy to us. Perhaps we're incredibly creative, or strategic, or your ability to connect with people is off the charts. Your action step is to make a list of all the things you're great at. And ask people close to you as well. You'll likely be surprised to hear what others see in you!
You Love It: This is sometimes referred to as "what are you passionate about?". Either way, this is the easy one. Write down your answers to the question, what do you spend your time doing or wishing you were doing? What are you reading, researching, spending time and money on, talking about? Write them all down.
You are paid for it. This one may feel more challenging. Write down your answers to the following questions: Could I get paid for this? And if your quick answer is no (is there a job to be a professional gelato taster?!), ask yourself the follow-up questions: Are others getting paid for this and, with more training or knowledge, could I get paid for this?
The world needs it. Your final question to reflect on is: Does the world need it? You don't have to be working on solving global warming (though I wish you would). Follow-up questions include: Does this help someone in some small way? Does it create beauty? Is it in service to others? Does it make someone's day brighter or lighter? Does it alleviate suffering?
I'd like to think that these questions would immediately point you towards your Ikigai. From my personal experience and in working with my clients, I've learned that this isn't a one-time exercise. These are questions to live with, ponder and refine over time.
Can you imagine a world where everyone is living their Ikigai? I can. Here's to you finding yours!
Want to learn more about the Blue Zones? This Netflix series from Dan Buettner called Live To 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones is equal parts Blue Zones 101 and a travel log to some of the world's beautiful places. If you're anything like me, you'll come away uplifted and inspired!
