The Ikigai Framework is a Japanese concept that can help us find fulfillment and meaning in our lives.
With questions such as ‘Why am I here?’ or ‘What am I doing with my life?’ often weighing heavy on our minds, this framework provides a structured approach to finding the answers.
By exploring our skills and passions, what the world needs, and what we can be paid for, we can unlock the answers to these existential questions. We can find our own Ikigai – our reason for being.
And this article will explain exactly how to do it.
Background of the Ikigai Framework
The word Ikigai combines two words: “iki” meaning “to live,” and “gai” meaning “reason.” Essentially, it translates to “a reason for being” and, according to the Japanese, is something we all have the ability to hold.
It sounds simple. But finding your Ikigai requires a journey of self-discovery. You’ll need to look closely into what you love doing, what you’re good at, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs.
Only by delving deep into these four aspects will you find your true purpose in life.
The idea of Ikigai has been a part of Japanese culture for as far back as the Heian period. But it was Japanese psychiatrist and scholar, Mieko Kamiya who introduced it to a wider audience in her 1966 book, “Ikigai-ni-Tsuite” (On the Meaning of Life.)
In it, Kamiya describes Ikigai as a form of happiness. But more than that, a feeling that our lives are constantly moving forward, despite any difficulties we may now be facing.
Kamiya, also known as, The Mother of Ikigai, dedicated much of her life to researching the concept. She wrote that, in order to feel Ikigai, our deepest desires must align with our responsibilities.
And by publishing the book, Kamiya found her own reason for being – to write and share her knowledge with the world.
In 2016, Héctor García and Francesc Miralles co-wrote “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life.” And it was here that we saw the concept of Ikigai pushed into the global spotlight.
While researching for the book, García spent time with the residents of Okinawa in southern Japan, a village known for longevity. He found that their secret to living a long and fruitful life was Ikigai; they had a reason for being.
The book, which includes case studies on the Okinawans, teaches its readers how to apply Ikigai to their own lives. And it has now been translated into 70 languages, making it accessible to anyone hoping to find their own Ikigai.
3 Steps to Finding Your Ikigai
For some people, finding their Ikigai comes naturally. They know from an early age what they are meant to do with their lives; their reason for getting up in the morning. And they embrace life for all it has to offer.
But for the vast majority of people, it’s not that easy. And questions, such as ‘What am I doing with my life?” and “Is this really it?” continue to take up space in their lives.
Thankfully, the Ikigai framework can help you to address these worries. By honestly answering the questions below, you’ll pinpoint the 4 elements that make up your reason for being. And understand where changes need to be made.
So let’s take a look at the Ikigai framework, step by step.
1. Answer the following questions.
Take your time and be honest with yourself. You might find it easier to use a template, such as this Finding Your Ikigai guide.
What Do I Love Doing?
What is it that makes you feel alive? It could be anything from rock climbing to reading; from partying with friends to solo trips around the world.
Make a list and prioritize the things that make you want to jump out of bed and seize the day.
Be honest with yourself. And don't worry about what society expects or what others may think. This is about you and what brings a smile to your face.
What Am I Good At?
What are your strengths and your skills? These might be things you’ve trained in, and dedicated time to. Or they might be things you’re naturally gifted in, like being a great listener, or musician.
We all have something to offer, something we excel in, so embrace these strengths and skills. And celebrate the things that make you stand out from the crowd.
What Does The World Need?
This doesn’t have to be the entire world – it might be your local community or an online group. It may even be within your own home, with your family and friends.
In every walk of life, there will be someone in need. And finding that ‘world’, that need for change that inspires you to do more, will give you a reason to be.
What Can I be Paid To Do?
Look at your previous job experience, your skills, and qualifications. And ask yourself, ‘What can I be paid to do? What do I have to offer in return for a decent wage?’
It could be something similar to your current occupation, where you can harness your existing skills. Or it could be an entirely new vocation, where you can transfer your valuable knowledge.
Remember – don't be afraid to explore new opportunities. You never know where it could lead.
2. Look at where your answers overlap
Take a look at the answers and in particular, where the areas overlap, for example, What I Love and What The World Needs. The answers to these questions are known as your Mission. And will give you a direction to pursue.
It might be that you’re passionate about art, like the late Frida Kahlo, whose paintings resonated with people who were emotionally struggling. She found her Ikigai by sharing her passion and connecting with like-minded people.
Or it could be that you love sports, like Michael Jordon, who continuously supports young people through charitable work, including the Special Olympics. His Ikigia was found in making sports accessible for everyone.
3. Understand your Ikigai
You should now be able to see where these key aspects of your life overlap. And more importantly, pinpoint where your current life choices might be missing the mark.
Let’s say, for example, that your profession ticks the right boxes. You’re well respected within your job, thanks to your extensive experience and finesse when handling projects. And the pay gives you a comfortable lifestyle.
But you’re not happy in your work. It doesn’t excite you in any way – there’s no passion. And you can’t see that it’s making any real impact on the world. Let's face it – if you left tomorrow, your post would soon be filled and legacy, non-existent.
In this case, it’s time to try out new things and find what makes you truly happy.
Ikigai Framework Example
Now that we understand how the Ikigai Framework works, let's examine an instance where these steps are put into practice.
The star of our example will be Emma, and we’ll see how she uses the framework to find her Ikigai.
Firstly, Emma needed to define what she loves doing, what she’s good at, what she can be paid for, and what the world needs.
By identifying these key areas in her life, Emma could see that her profession, an office manager in the city, did tick the What I Can Be Paid For and What I’m Good At boxes.
But she had no passion for the job. It's just a job. A 9-5 with nowhere to go.
This is something that Emma has always struggled with – a lack of direction. She's spent most of her adult life working towards her current mundane job – a job that she resents but continues to do as the bills need paying.
However, by completing the Ikigai framework, Emma could identify her overlapping priorities in What The World Needs and What I Love. She longed to throw on a pair of wellies and be outside, away from the stuffy office. And to spend time with animals, rather than shirts and ties.
So, when the local animal shelter posted an advert for volunteers, Emma applied without a second thought. She knew it was what she needed in her life – she felt passionate about helping out at the shelter.
No, giving up the office job wasn’t an option, for now at least. But Emma was able to find her Ikigai by meeting all four areas of her life.
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Ikigai
Finding fulfillment in our lives can be difficult. But by using the Ikigai framework, it’s much easier to see the path we should take to find it.
It’s important to remember that discovering your purpose isn’t a one-time event. You will undoubtedly outgrow where you’re now standing. And it's perfectly okay to revisit the framework, time and time again.
Remember, it's all about finding that perfect balance between what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. So, embrace the journey.
And always be open to new experiences and opportunities that come your way.
And if you want more resources on how to find your purpose in life, be sure to check out these blog posts:
- 11 Life Purpose Questionnaires & Quizzes to Take
- How to Write a Life Purpose Statement (with 5 Examples)
- 13 Best Books on Finding Your Purpose in Life
