Creating Deeper Relationships Through Ikigai
Ikigai is a Japanese word for “a reason for being”. Another way to think of this concept is having something to look forward to or a reason to wake up in the morning. There is a sense of fulfillment with things and activities that you love or bring you happiness and joy. The term combines two Japanese words: “iki” (life) and “gai” (worth or value). There are four components to finding your ikigai: aligning with what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs and how you can make money.
The Four Components of Ikigai
When learning about ikigai, first knowing the four pillars of what it means and how to apply these to your life.
What you love- questions to ask of what brings you passion, what do you love and what do you care about.
What you’re good at - what are your talents, what are things you’re good at and excel at.
What the world needs- what is it that the world needs that you’re good at and what you love to do.
How you can be paid (compensated) - finding your joy in how you can be compensated for what you’re good at and care about.
When you align your values, what you care about, what others needs and can benefit from and how you can be paid to live your life, your life can be in better balance and harmony and that is the base principle of ikigai. It is more than finding the perfect career, it is about finding a sense of purpose and joy in what you do.
Finding What You Care About in Relationships
When applied to relationships and thinking about the four components of Ikigai, finding what is it that you care about within the context of relationships. Love and connection are core elements in regards to Ikigai. When you find out what you care about and are deeply passionate about, you can find this through relationships. This is deeper than having the same interests or career, it dives deeper into what is it that brings you joy through connection. Love within yourself and through others is the essence of Ikigai and finding happiness.
Nurturing Connection Through Ikigai
Self-Comassion: When you have self-compassion, you’re nurturing your core self and what you’re truly passionate about. What you care about is a part of what makes you, you. When you take hold of your passions and follow them, you’re following your mission and purpose, bringing the ultimate joy and sense of fulfillment.
Connection in Relationships: Serving others through connection in relationships. These connections can be with anyone someone forms a relationship with, those we work with, significant others, family, friends and acquaintances. By looking how your passions can benefit society and others is part of purpose and meaning.
Finding Meaning in Connection: Connection with others is one component but connection with yourself is another large portion of ikigai. When you find the connection with your inner self, values and desires this creates a connection with your authentic, true self.
Building Community in Connection: In building community with others, creating these connections creates a sense of purpose. In finding fulfilment with like-minded individuals, can create meaning. Volunteering is one of many ways to do this. Other ways to create community is finding activities that are enjoyable to you and joining groups in your area.
Creating a life of fulfillment centers around love and connection.
Commonly Asked Questions About Ikigai
Are there tools and exercises to find your Ikigai?
Absolutely! One of the best tools is self-reflection using journals, creative/artistic approaches and talking to a counselor.
How can I incorporate Ikigai into my daily life?
Ikigai is about finding what brings happiness and connection to your life. Once you’re in alignment with your passions, desires and values.
Can Ikigai change over time?
Yes, as you change and experience new things, your passions and what brings you happiness may change too.
Can Ikigai be your career?
Finding your Ikigai is blending different elements together and this can be career among other aspects. By reflecting on your passions, skills, and what brings you purpose can be what it is.
