Ikigai is a Japanese concept that roughly translates to "a reason for being" or "a reason to get up in the morning." It is the intersection of four elements: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. This concept has gained popularity in recent years as a way to find meaning and purpose in life, especially in the workplace.
The first element of Ikigai is what you love. This refers to the things that you are passionate about and enjoy doing, regardless of whether or not you are paid for them. It could be a hobby, a sport, or a creative pursuit that brings you joy and fulfillment.
The second element is what you are good at. This refers to your skills, talents, and expertise. It could be something that you have developed through your education or career, or it could be a natural ability that you have honed over time.
The third element is what the world needs. This refers to the things that society or the world at large needs or values. It could be something as simple as providing a service or product that makes people's lives easier, or it could be something more complex, like working towards a global issue like climate change.
The fourth and final element is what you can be paid for. This refers to the things that you can do that are also in demand in the job market. It could be a specific skill or knowledge that you possess that is highly valued by employers.
The concept of Ikigai suggests that when you are able to find the intersection of these four elements, you will have found your reason for being. It is the sweet spot where your passions, talents, values, and marketable skills all come together to create a fulfilling and purposeful life.
