How Can It Change Your Life?
The Japanese Secret to Joy
I believe that each of us has a purpose and meaning in life. Our Ikigai. That guiding light that leads us even through the darkest times and helps us overcome periods of stagnation and emptiness. But how do we find it? How do we inflame our own light and live fully every day? Let’s explore this together.
What is Ikigai?
Ikigai is a Japanese word that can be translated as “the meaning of life” or “what gives life value and joy.” It’s the feeling that something matters, that we are useful, and that our life has meaning—not just for ourselves but for others as well.
This Japanese concept holds deep wisdom.
Ikigai doesn’t have to be something big. Sometimes, it’s the simple, everyday activities that bring order and fulfillment to our lives. For some, it may be taking care of their family, their garden, or cooking favorite meals. For others, it’s golf, traveling, peaceful creative activities like sewing or knitting, or simply spreading smiles and kind words that light up other faces.
When I look back, I remember my grandfather. He was left alone at the age of 78, but he had rabbits, chickens, and a small holding. He cared for the animals, rode his bike to gather grass for them, and even though he didn’t have to anymore, it gave him a sense of purpose. He felt needed—not just for himself, but for his small holding and his dog. That’s what kept him moving, what made him feel that he mattered. That was his Ikigai.
Why is it important to find your Ikigai?
Maybe you’ve benn experiencing this—daily routine, feeling stuck, missing that spark. Sometimes life wears us down, and we forget what truly makes us happy and gives our actions a deeper meaning.
Especially during times when our life stages change—choosing a career, returning to work after maternity leave, experiencing burnout, children growing up, retiring… These are the moments when we often ask ourselves: What now? Which path should I take? What still has meaning?
- It shows us that age or circumstances don’t matter—there’s always something that can bring joy and meaning to our lives. Even the smallest things can have great significance.
- It gives us energy and motivation to get out of bed every morning.
- It helps us overcome obstacles and periods of stagnation.
- It gives our life direction and fills us with a sense of fulfillment.
Ikigai isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of living fully every day.
When we live in alignment with our Ikigai, we are healthier, more resilient, and happier. The stories of long-lived residents of Okinawa, Japan, and other places known as the Blue Zones are living proof of this.
I have my own experience of discovering and living my Ikigai—though I’m not 100 years old yet. 🙂
A while ago, I felt stagnation and routine in my work and business. The more I overthought it, the more chaos and uncertainty filled my mind—I wasn’t sure if this path was for me anymore.
Golf and nature became my quiet retreat. They were what kept me joyful and energized, even during difficult times.
But when I went through the process of finding my Ikigai, I discovered a new energy and a renewed desire to continue and improve what I had started years ago. And not only that—I also gave my work a new direction, one that truly reflects my strengths and allows me to grow in new ways. At the same time, I also rediscovered my forgotten passion, which I had to leave behind due to the pandemic and never returned to. And now, I feel much more present in what I truly live, and I want to try new things. The energy of life feels completely different.
How to Find Your Ikigai
- Pause and reflect: What brings you joy? What fulfills you? What activities make you feel truly alive?
- Explore your passions: Maybe it’s something you used to do but forgot about. Or something you always wanted to try but never made time for.
- Focus on the small things: Ikigai doesn’t have to be about big goals. Sometimes, simple joys—growing flowers, cooking favorite meals, or sharing joy with others—are enough.
Would you like to discover your Ikigai with support and inspiration from others?
Join the transformational group program The Path to Yourself Together. We start in spring 2025! Sign up for the waiting list today and gain access to exclusive bonuses.
Ikigai in Practice: How to Maintain It
Theory is great, but how do you bring Ikigai into your daily life?
Here are a few more tips:
- Start with small steps. Dedicate at least 15 minutes a day to an activity that fulfills you.
- Be grateful for what you already have and what life brings you.
- Surround yourself with people who inspire and support you.
- Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.
- Be patient and kind to yourself. Finding Ikigai is a lifelong journey.
Ikigai at Any Age: It’s Never Too Late to Start Again
Our Ikigai (which I also call “My Life Vision”) changes and evolves throughout life. What fulfilled us at twenty may be different at forty or sixty. And that’s perfectly okay.
The key is not to hold on to old ideas and expectations but to allow ourselves to explore new paths. Even the smallest step in the right direction can lead us to unexpected places.
It’s never too late to start over and write a new chapter in your life.
Conclusion: How to Light Your Own Ikigai
I believe that each of us holds unique potential and the ability to live a fulfilled life. Ikigai shows us the way to align our talents with our own needs and the needs of the world around us, finding both joy and purpose.
Don’t be afraid to dream, try new things, and listen to your heart. You might discover that your guiding light was inside you all along. All it takes is the courage to turn it on.
If you’re unsure where to start, I have an easy way to help you take the first step.
I’ve created a QUIZ to guide you toward discovering your Ikigai.
👉 Sign up for the waiting list for the transformational program The Path to Yourself Together today. We start in spring 2025!
Finding Ikigai is a lifelong journey. It’s never too late to start, no matter your age. The key is to keep moving toward fulfillment.
Every day is an opportunity to find new meaning and new energy. Your life is worth it! You are worth it! 😊
Wishing you a wonderful day,
Jitka