Ikigai is a Japanese term that essentially means "a reason to live."
Understanding the Term Ikigai
The word Ikigai is formed by combining two distinct Japanese words:
- "iki": meaning "to live"
- "gai": meaning "reason"
Blended together, these terms translate directly to "a reason to live," as highlighted in the provided reference.
The Concept of Ikigai
Beyond a simple translation, Ikigai represents a deeper concept. It's about finding what brings value and joy to your life, what motivates you to get up in the morning. The reference states it is "a concept that encourages people to discover what truly matters to them and to live a life filled with purpose and joy."
It's not necessarily linked to financial success or a specific career, although it can include those things. It often relates to:
- What you love
- What you are good at
- What the world needs
- What you can be paid for (sometimes, but not always)
Finding your Ikigai is seen as a path to a more fulfilling and purposeful existence. It encourages introspection and exploration to identify the confluence of activities, relationships, or values that give your life meaning.
