![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f39740e04a.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f38f87acc4.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f38f49e026.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f38f743a3a.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f38f7164d2.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f38f1cd3b1.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f38f4139fa.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f38fe7b3ac.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f39033e857.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f38fe960e6.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f3900d83cc.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f39020977c.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f390360608.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f390c0a50b.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f390c09d53.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f390f67125.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f390f28f9f.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f390d5c47d.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f390e877a6.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f391bd79ee.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f391b3db2b.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f3974ab974.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f3971b9f32.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f39758b4a3.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f3973c2a27.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f397472e65.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f4099d14ff.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f409cb61d9.jpg)
![Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/gallery/1080/na_664f409c197cd.jpg)
See Also
See Again
© Shutterstock
0 / 29 Fotos
Definition of ikigai - Ikigai (pronounced ee-kee-guy) is a Japanese term meaning "a reason for being.” Though there isn’t a direct English translation, it encompasses finding joy in life through purpose in unique ways.
© Shutterstock
1 / 29 Fotos
Four pillars of ikigai - There are four main parts to ikigai: what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
© Shutterstock
2 / 29 Fotos
Finding your passion - Passions are activities we love and that make us feel excited and alive even. Passions can help us stay motivated.
© Shutterstock
3 / 29 Fotos
Recognizing your talents - Talents are inclusive of skills and strengths you excel at. For example, maybe you’re great at writing or math. Identifying what you’re an expert in helps pay recognition to you and to that strength.
© Shutterstock
4 / 29 Fotos
Understanding market needs - This particular element challenges you to see where and how you can make a difference. Think to yourself what challenges or problems exist in your life or community.
© Shutterstock
5 / 29 Fotos
Economic aspect - It’s important to find what you can be paid for. Get creative as to how your passions and mission can be turned into a profession where you’ll earn money.
© Shutterstock
6 / 29 Fotos
Balancing the four pillars - Balancing these ideals and finding the overlap amongst them can sound challenging, but it’s a journey worth exploring. Ikigai will help you live a more joyful, satisfied, and purposeful life.
© Shutterstock
7 / 29 Fotos
Benefits of finding your ikigai: Increased happiness - Living in alignment with your ikigai means that you’re living for your purpose and therefore are filled with joy and satisfaction.
© Shutterstock
8 / 29 Fotos
Reduced stress - Stress can stem from a disconnection or dissatisfaction with life. Discovering your ikigai means aligning the four pillars, and this can promote balance and tranquility.
© Shutterstock
9 / 29 Fotos
Sense of fulfillment
- Ikigai can enrich your life as well as the lives of others. Doing something you adore while being good at it and helping the world can bring feelings of fulfillment.
© Shutterstock
10 / 29 Fotos
Enhanced motivation
- Having a clear sense of who you are by implementing ikigai often helps propel you forward, even in the toughest of times.
© Shutterstock
11 / 29 Fotos
Improved health
- Studies have linked having a life's purpose with a boost in your immune system, as well as lower anxiety and the possibility of living longer.
© Shutterstock
12 / 29 Fotos
Personal growth - Self-discovery journeys aim to help us develop into better humans. Ikigai helps you explore new interests and works to improve and broaden your horizons.
© Shutterstock
13 / 29 Fotos
How to find your ikigai: Practice mindfulness - Mindfulness gives you time and space to be present and work on fostering a deeper, better connection with your inner self.
© Shutterstock
14 / 29 Fotos
Reflect on the ikigai diagram - A helpful practice is to look at the four parts of ikigai and write for three minutes on each pillar. Be sure to reflect on what you learned after you write.
© Shutterstock
15 / 29 Fotos
Embrace meditation - Meditation can be a powerful and useful tool within ikigai. This exercise aims to quiet the mind, reduce stress, and help you gain clarity.
© Shutterstock
16 / 29 Fotos
Experiment and observe - Try new things! Experiment with different activities and be sure to observe which bring you joy or even a sense of purpose.
© Shutterstock
17 / 29 Fotos
Seek feedback - Throughout the ikigai process, take time to speak with others you trust. Looking for a mentor or talking with a friend can help you align the four pillars of ikigai.
© Shutterstock
18 / 29 Fotos
Practice patience and persistence - Be patient with yourself, as ikigai can take time. This is called a journey of self-discovery for a reason. In short, you can view this as a marathon, not a sprint.
© Shutterstock
19 / 29 Fotos
Engage in self-reflection - Set aside specific time for self-reflection. Think about what you’ve learned and how you feel thus far in your path. Keep a journal so you can review later, and address where you still want to go.
© Shutterstock
20 / 29 Fotos
Practical steps to incorporate ikigai into daily life - Incorporating ikigai into your life each day is as easy as setting aside time for activities that bring you joy.
© Shutterstock
21 / 29 Fotos
Physical health benefits
- Ikigai can positively impact your physical health by encouraging a more active lifestyle. By doing things you love and exploring other possibilities, you can develop healthier habits and improve your quality of life.
© Shutterstock
22 / 29 Fotos
Work-life balance
- Ikigai aims to help you achieve a healthier work-life balance by aligning your career with your passions and values. Ultimately, this can lead to greater job satisfaction.
© Shutterstock
23 / 29 Fotos
Challenges in finding ikigai - As with any change, there are often several common obstacles people face regarding ikigai. These challenges can include self-doubt, lack of clarity, and societal pressures.
© Shutterstock
24 / 29 Fotos
Ikigai in relationships
- Emotional bonds can be strengthened with the help of ikigai. Sharing common interests, supporting each other’s goals, and fostering mutual growth and happiness all strengthen emotional bonds.
© Shutterstock
25 / 29 Fotos
Cultural perspectives
- Different places and their respective cultures view ikigai through various lenses. For example, in Western cultures there is more of a focus on career fulfillment, while Eastern cultures emphasize more community involvement.
© Shutterstock
26 / 29 Fotos
Over time
- Over time your ikigai will grow and evolve, just like you will. It's important to maintain your ikigai, to frequently take time and reevaluate where you are and what you need and want from life.
© Shutterstock
27 / 29 Fotos
Mindset shifts
- Be open to necessary mindset shifts to embrace ikigai fully. It can feel very vulnerable at first to do so much self-reflection, but in the end it will greatly benefit you and your life. Sources: (Calm) (Marlee)
© Shutterstock
28 / 29 Fotos
© Shutterstock
0 / 29 Fotos
Definition of ikigai - Ikigai (pronounced ee-kee-guy) is a Japanese term meaning "a reason for being.” Though there isn’t a direct English translation, it encompasses finding joy in life through purpose in unique ways.
© Shutterstock
1 / 29 Fotos
Four pillars of ikigai - There are four main parts to ikigai: what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
© Shutterstock
2 / 29 Fotos
Finding your passion - Passions are activities we love and that make us feel excited and alive even. Passions can help us stay motivated.
© Shutterstock
3 / 29 Fotos
Recognizing your talents - Talents are inclusive of skills and strengths you excel at. For example, maybe you’re great at writing or math. Identifying what you’re an expert in helps pay recognition to you and to that strength.
© Shutterstock
4 / 29 Fotos
Understanding market needs - This particular element challenges you to see where and how you can make a difference. Think to yourself what challenges or problems exist in your life or community.
© Shutterstock
5 / 29 Fotos
Economic aspect - It’s important to find what you can be paid for. Get creative as to how your passions and mission can be turned into a profession where you’ll earn money.
© Shutterstock
6 / 29 Fotos
Balancing the four pillars - Balancing these ideals and finding the overlap amongst them can sound challenging, but it’s a journey worth exploring. Ikigai will help you live a more joyful, satisfied, and purposeful life.
© Shutterstock
7 / 29 Fotos
Benefits of finding your ikigai: Increased happiness - Living in alignment with your ikigai means that you’re living for your purpose and therefore are filled with joy and satisfaction.
© Shutterstock
8 / 29 Fotos
Reduced stress - Stress can stem from a disconnection or dissatisfaction with life. Discovering your ikigai means aligning the four pillars, and this can promote balance and tranquility.
© Shutterstock
9 / 29 Fotos
Sense of fulfillment
- Ikigai can enrich your life as well as the lives of others. Doing something you adore while being good at it and helping the world can bring feelings of fulfillment.
© Shutterstock
10 / 29 Fotos
Enhanced motivation
- Having a clear sense of who you are by implementing ikigai often helps propel you forward, even in the toughest of times.
© Shutterstock
11 / 29 Fotos
Improved health
- Studies have linked having a life's purpose with a boost in your immune system, as well as lower anxiety and the possibility of living longer.
© Shutterstock
12 / 29 Fotos
Personal growth - Self-discovery journeys aim to help us develop into better humans. Ikigai helps you explore new interests and works to improve and broaden your horizons.
© Shutterstock
13 / 29 Fotos
How to find your ikigai: Practice mindfulness - Mindfulness gives you time and space to be present and work on fostering a deeper, better connection with your inner self.
© Shutterstock
14 / 29 Fotos
Reflect on the ikigai diagram - A helpful practice is to look at the four parts of ikigai and write for three minutes on each pillar. Be sure to reflect on what you learned after you write.
© Shutterstock
15 / 29 Fotos
Embrace meditation - Meditation can be a powerful and useful tool within ikigai. This exercise aims to quiet the mind, reduce stress, and help you gain clarity.
© Shutterstock
16 / 29 Fotos
Experiment and observe - Try new things! Experiment with different activities and be sure to observe which bring you joy or even a sense of purpose.
© Shutterstock
17 / 29 Fotos
Seek feedback - Throughout the ikigai process, take time to speak with others you trust. Looking for a mentor or talking with a friend can help you align the four pillars of ikigai.
© Shutterstock
18 / 29 Fotos
Practice patience and persistence - Be patient with yourself, as ikigai can take time. This is called a journey of self-discovery for a reason. In short, you can view this as a marathon, not a sprint.
© Shutterstock
19 / 29 Fotos
Engage in self-reflection - Set aside specific time for self-reflection. Think about what you’ve learned and how you feel thus far in your path. Keep a journal so you can review later, and address where you still want to go.
© Shutterstock
20 / 29 Fotos
Practical steps to incorporate ikigai into daily life - Incorporating ikigai into your life each day is as easy as setting aside time for activities that bring you joy.
© Shutterstock
21 / 29 Fotos
Physical health benefits
- Ikigai can positively impact your physical health by encouraging a more active lifestyle. By doing things you love and exploring other possibilities, you can develop healthier habits and improve your quality of life.
© Shutterstock
22 / 29 Fotos
Work-life balance
- Ikigai aims to help you achieve a healthier work-life balance by aligning your career with your passions and values. Ultimately, this can lead to greater job satisfaction.
© Shutterstock
23 / 29 Fotos
Challenges in finding ikigai - As with any change, there are often several common obstacles people face regarding ikigai. These challenges can include self-doubt, lack of clarity, and societal pressures.
© Shutterstock
24 / 29 Fotos
Ikigai in relationships
- Emotional bonds can be strengthened with the help of ikigai. Sharing common interests, supporting each other’s goals, and fostering mutual growth and happiness all strengthen emotional bonds.
© Shutterstock
25 / 29 Fotos
Cultural perspectives
- Different places and their respective cultures view ikigai through various lenses. For example, in Western cultures there is more of a focus on career fulfillment, while Eastern cultures emphasize more community involvement.
© Shutterstock
26 / 29 Fotos
Over time
- Over time your ikigai will grow and evolve, just like you will. It's important to maintain your ikigai, to frequently take time and reevaluate where you are and what you need and want from life.
© Shutterstock
27 / 29 Fotos
Mindset shifts
- Be open to necessary mindset shifts to embrace ikigai fully. It can feel very vulnerable at first to do so much self-reflection, but in the end it will greatly benefit you and your life. Sources: (Calm) (Marlee)
© Shutterstock
28 / 29 Fotos
Ikigai: what it is, and how it will change your life
The Japanese concept you can't afford to ignore
© Shutterstock
In today’s world, people are often searching for the meaning of their life, their purpose, or what fulfills them. Indeed, it can be quite the journey if you aren’t prepared with the right tools. Enter the Japanese concept of ikigai.
It’s more than just a buzzword; it’s truly a way of life that seamlessly blends what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. In this gallery, we’ll explore how everyone (yes, even you!) can pursue a complete overhaul on life. Click through now.
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
![Pioneering ways AI is being used in the Olympics](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66a3ae28aa4d5.jpg)
![Unlocking your potential with a growth mindset](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669fd8da0bfd4.jpg)
![Outdated workplace trends to say goodbye to](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66a241cfb6915.jpg)
![The top 30 countries with the highest salaries](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66a1257b5af9b.jpg)
![30 animals with surprisingly human traits](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669fc7d59e9be.jpg)
![How to tell if someone is lying, based on their zodiac sign](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66a0bf8100fc4.jpg)
![How to keep kids safe during a heat wave](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669fda1b16851.jpg)
![The ultimate summer skin care routine](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66a0f721df09f.jpg)
![What is the 'brat girl summer' trend all about?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66a246addc9ca.jpg)
![Fascinating facts you probably didn't know about the Oval Office](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669f79198a06a.jpg)
![What are the ancient origins of your zodiac sign?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669e75af237bf.jpg)
![What toll does spaceflight take on astronauts?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669fa07d627e8.jpg)
![The comprehensive guide to managing and resolving credit card debt](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669fc270d28d6.jpg)
![The dangers of compartmentalizing emotions](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_6697c3f7ccd57.jpg)
![Decoding Gen Z slang: a guide to staying relevant](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66a0c15928804.jpg)
![The most polluted rivers in the world](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669a98796a53a.jpg)
![Fascinating dog facts that will change the way you look at your pup](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_664c9ce143f08.jpg)
![Countries with the highest disposable income, ranked](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669fad641cf77.jpg)
![How the first letter of your name defines your character](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66969fdb92841.jpg)
![How did dinosaurs grow so big?](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_6697d2df7ee71.jpg)
![Mediterranean tragedy: the dangerous migration routes to Europe](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669e61a422da8.jpg)
![How to grow food in the city](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_663cb61851ff9.jpg)
![Everything you need to know about slow living](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_663b862fda57a.jpg)
![The French origins of the Swedish monarchy](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_663ba08c3840f.jpg)
![What rapid weight loss can do to the body](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_6641df4c4a90e.jpg)
![Your guide to starting a successful franchise](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_663a5255b413a.jpg)
![Seeking out the "four F's" of commonly foraged food](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66332bd2057c7.jpg)
![A parent's guide to raising emotionally intelligent children](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669e897d15e3e.jpg)
![How (and why) to create a personal development plan](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_664488d8abddc.jpg)
![Influential art movements of the 20th century](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_663a042eaf13d.jpg)
![The key raw materials needed to power the devices of the future](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_663ce0b155915.jpg)
![The ultimate guide to starting your own podcast](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_6638ff6812c6b.jpg)
![Roman mythology: important gods and goddesses everyone should know](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_66992c92c8129.jpg)
![How your zodiac sign influences your personality traits](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_669a26da88b03.jpg)
![Galileo's astronomical contribution to science](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_6661b4e7ddfe2.jpg)
![Is workplace "mobbing" on the rise? How to cope if you're the target](https://media-manager.starsinsider.com/640/na_665ee23c803f5.jpg)
MOST READ
- Last Hour
- Last Day
- Last Week
-
1
CELEBRITY Relationships
-
2
LIFESTYLE Nature
-
3
LIFESTYLE Curiosities
-
4
TRAVEL Staycation
Be a tourist in your own city and fall in love all over again
-
5
HEALTH Covid-19
-
6
HEALTH Cognitive function
-
7
LIFESTYLE Bizarre
You won't believe these bizarre prison rules and regulations
-
8
HEALTH Bad habits
-
9
TRAVEL Destinations
-
10
TRAVEL Architecture