Find Your Ikigai

I have let go of many illusions, projections, and beliefs over the years of walking a spiritual path. Spirituality is about transcending beliefs, but one particular belief still holds strong inside of me, one that I’m not willing to let go of:

LIFE HAS PURPOSE AND MEANING

I don’t know if it’s really true — it’s a belief — but I choose to believe it. Why? Because it’s natural, easy, and it supports my mental and emotional health.

When I studied the psychology of human belief, one of the things that stood out to me is how deeply we are hardwired to seek meaning. We are constantly connecting dots, creating stories, and finding purpose in life. We tend to create meaning out of éverything. It’s in our nature.

In my personal experience, ánd as a psychologist and coach, I found this need for meaning even to be essential for well-being. A life without purpose feels like an empty life and can lead to depression… or worse.

Find your IKIGAI!

Ikigai is a Japanese word composed of “iki” (生き), which means “life” or “to live”, and “gai” (甲斐), which translates to “worth” or “value.” Ikigai can be understood as “a reason for living” or “the thing that makes life worth living.”

Ikigai is the reason you wake up in the morning!

In Japan, ikigai is about finding joy, satisfaction, and meaning in daily life, whether through small, everyday activities or a deep sense of purpose. It doesn’t necessarily involve achieving grand goals but focuses on living with fulfillment in simple daily moments.

It’s like being in a state of FLOW.

Maybe the reason why meaning and purpose are so intertwined with ease, is because Ikigai is about the things that fully engage you. Ikigai is found at the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. When you ALIGN these elements, life flows more naturally.

What’s yóur IKIGAI?

If you’re wondering, look for it in the areas where you feel most fulfilled and engaged. It’s found in activities or pursuits that bring you joy, satisfaction, ánd a sense of purpose. When you align with what feels right for you — whether big or small — you truly thrive!