Ikigai is a Japanese word that means “a reason for being” or “a reason to live”. It is the place where your passions, talents, values and needs intersect. It is what gives you joy and fulfillment in life.
The book Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, written by Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia, explores this concept from the authors’ visit to a town in Japan called Okinawa, home to the largest population of centenarians in the world. The book reveals the secrets of their longevity and happiness, and how they find their ikigai in their daily activities.
Reasons to read this book
- You will learn about the fascinating culture and lifestyle of the Okinawans, who have a low-stress, active and community-oriented way of living.
- You will discover the benefits of finding your ikigai, such as increased motivation, creativity, resilience and health.
- You will get practical tips and exercises to help you identify your ikigai and pursue it with passion and purpose.
- You will be inspired by the stories of people who have found their ikigai in various fields, such as art, music, education, business and social work.
Lessons from this book
Some of the key lessons from this book are:
- Finding your ikigai is not a one-time event, but a lifelong process of exploration and experimentation.
- Your ikigai can change over time, depending on your circumstances, interests and goals.
- Your ikigai does not have to be your profession or career. It can be a hobby, a volunteer work, a personal project or anything that makes you happy and fulfilled.
- To find your ikigai, you need to ask yourself four questions: What do you love? What are you good at? What does the world need from you? What can you get paid for?
- To live your ikigai, you need to balance your needs and desires with the expectations and demands of society. You also need to cultivate a positive attitude, a sense of gratitude and a growth mindset.
- To sustain your ikigai, you need to follow some principles of healthy living, such as eating well, moving regularly, resting adequately and staying connected with others.
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