Ikigai is a Japanese concept that means “a reason for being”. The word “ikigai” is usually used to indicate the source of value in one’s life or the things that makes one’s life worthwhile.

There are few questions that you need to search answers for within to uncover your purpose in life :

  • Determine your core values – What are the core values that make you tick? Pick at lease 3 core values such as Travel, Career, Family etc.
  • What are you passionate about? This helps you establish what you are passionate about and how you can tie it into other aspects of your life. Ask yourself things like – is money was no object what would you do? If you had to speak publicly on a topic what would be easy for you?
  • What is your mission? What alignment do you have with your greater society or culture? Is there something you are naturally aligned to? Is it something that your community needs from you? Are there any volunteer or charity organisations that align to your values?
  • What is your profession? How have you fostered and developed your career? What can you do in your career to align with the other aspects of your ikigai? Is there professional development you still need to work on?
  • What is your vocation> What are your natural talents? Can you turn these into a side hustle? How can you further develop those natural talents?

Remember to evaluate your sense of happiness and purpose at every step along the way. By seeking growth that fits your sense of purpose, you pursue health and happiness as well.

Read more on myinnercreative.com

19 responses to “Finding Your Purpose”

    1. You can’t think your way into finding your life purpose; you have to do your way into it. Take a mental note from Nike and Just Do It. The more we act, the more we get clear on things. So instead of overthinking it — Will this work out? Should I try that? What if I don’t like it? What if I don’t make money at it? Start taking steps toward your goals and start trying new things. This will help you get out of your own way. I struggled for years trying to find out what my purpose was. This cycle only created a deeper lack of clarity. It wasn’t until I started doing that things changed for me. I began writing, and sent a story to Chicken Soup for the Soul. The second I received the letter of acceptance was unlike any ever before, love flooded into my heart and I knew that this was what I had to do with my life. You see though, I had to start writing to learn that my biggest passion was indeed writing. That only came with consistent action.

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      1. very inspiring to read this

        Liked by 1 person

  1. Wonderful post shared. Truly to be read by many for uplifting self confidence

    Liked by 1 person

    1. The two greatest days of your life are the day you were born, and the day you find out what your purpose is, but if you don’t know what your purpose is than you don’t know why you are here, and it can be hard to keep going.

      Liked by 1 person

  2. We often question our purpose. It’s a big question but as you point out, some things to try out to the start opening up our understanding

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I understand where you are coming from. That feeling that something is missing goes away when you lead a passion-filled life. The need to seek our purpose comes from a lack of passion. When you don’t feel connected to your life, you lack purpose and passion.

      Liked by 1 person

  3. Its really great to read this

    Like

    1. Indeed, a sense of purpose appears to have evolved in humans so that we can accomplish big things together—which may be why it’s associated with better physical and mental health. Purpose is adaptive, in an evolutionary sense. It helps both individuals and the species to survive.

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  4. I’m loving all these thought provoking questions. Some I answered without hesitation but others I had to really think. Thank you for this!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Identifying, acknowledging, and honoring this purpose is perhaps the most important action successful people take. They take the time to understand what they’re here to do – and then they pursue that with passion and enthusiasm. I am glad you liked the post Jessica.

      Liked by 1 person

  5. Hey..I am going to launch my magazine this week…for the next edition the theme will be work life balance or student life …would you be able to provide some articles poem stories around the theme…

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Hi Shalini, sure I would love to help. Can you share some details with me like age group of the target population for this magazine, any theme you have in mind for the article on work life balance?

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      1. My inaugural magazines theme is Happiness. If you wish you can share on this as well. seasonsofthelife@yahoo.com with your name, location, title, social ids etc

        Liked by 1 person

  6. Absolutely love this ♥️. The feeling of freedom when you’re able to identify and live your passions is truly euphoric.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Glad you liked it. First, you must see when you’re stuck in the bubble. Whenever you’re angry, frustrated, irritated, fearful, anxious, procrastinating, feeling hurt, wishing people would be different … you’re in the bubble. These are signs. You are at the center of your universe, and everything is relating to you and your feelings. When you can’t stick to habits, or have a hard time with a diet, you’re in the bubble. Your momentary pleasure is what matters in this bubble. Outside the bubble, they’re just little events (sensations of desire, urges) that can be let go of.

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