WHAT DOES THE JAPANESE WORD “IKIGAI” MEAN? FIND OUT HERE!
In Japanese culture, various concepts embody life views and philosophies. One
term that has gained increasing popularity worldwide is “ikigai” (生き甲斐).
Literally, “ikigai” consists of two words: “iki” (生き), meaning “life,” and
“gai” (甲斐), meaning “value” or “worth.” Thus, “ikigai” can be interpreted as
“the worth of living” or “a reason for living.” This concept suggests that
every individual has a reason underlying their existence, which gives meaning
to their lives. Finding and understanding one’s “ikigai” is a personal journey
that can help someone discover happiness and purpose in life.
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| Image: GMedia |
Origin of the Word “Ikigai”
The term “ikigai” originates from Okinawa culture, which is renowned for
having the longest-living population in the world. The people of Okinawa live
a simple life focused on health and community, and they believe that
discovering one’s “ikigai” is key to leading a long and happy life. In Japan,
society often views “ikigai” as the intersection of what you love, what you
are good at, what the world needs, and what can provide a livelihood.
Elements of Ikigai
Ikigai can be breakdown into four main components:
- What You Love (Passion): This element includes hobbies, interests, and
activities that bring you joy and happiness. - What You Are Good At (Skills): This refers to the abilities or talents you
have developed through education or experience. - What the World Needs (Contribution): This focuses on how you can contribute
positively to society or others. - What Can Sustain You (Livelihood): This aspect concerns financial stability
and how to choose a career path that provides economic security.
When all four elements intersect, that is where your “ikigai” lies. It is an
opportunity for self-reflection and discovering meaning in everyday life.
Why is Ikigai Important?
Having “ikigai” can bring numerous benefits to an individual’s life. Some of
these benefits include:
- Improving Quality of Life: By discovering “ikigai,” one becomes more motivated
and gains a clear life purpose, enhancing happiness and satisfaction. - Enhancing Mental Health: Finding and living out one’s “ikigai” can help reduce
stress and improve overall mental health. - Strengthening Social Connections: When people understand their “ikigai,” they
build better relationships with those around them, as they are more focused on
making a positive contribution.
Example Sentences Using the Word “Ikigai”
Here are some example sentences that utilize the term “ikigai”:
私の生き甲斐は、絵を描くことです。
(わたしのいきがいは、えをかくことです。)
(Watashi no ikigai wa, e o kaku koto desu.)
Translation: My reason for living is painting.
仕事を通じて、私の生き甲斐を見つけました。
(しごとをつうじて、わたしのいきがいをみつけました。)
(Shigoto o tsūjite, watashi no ikigai o mitsukemashita.)
Translation: I found my reason for living through my work.
家族と過ごす時間が、私の生き甲斐です。
(かぞくとすごすじかんが、わたしのいきがいです。)
(Kazoku to sugosu jikan ga, watashi no ikigai desu.)
Translation: Time spent with family is my reason for living.
Conclusion
Finding your “ikigai” is a personal journey that requires deep reflection and
understanding oneself. You can uncover a deeper meaning in your life by
identifying what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and
what you can provide as a livelihood. “Ikigai” encourages you to pursue your
passions and significantly impacts your happiness and fulfillment.
