Every now and then and idea comes across your path that compels you to dig deeper. I am very glad I did.
In a recent IPA leadership presentation, sixteen budding leaders and I were introduced to the concept of ikigai (pronounced Ick-ee-guy) - a reason for being.
Ikigai has its origins on the Japanese island of Okinawa, reputed to be the largest population of centenarians in the world.
In simple terms ikigai is at the intersection of what you are good at and what you love doing.
Ikigai is seen as the overlap of four primary needs:
- What you love (your passion)
- What the world needs (your mission)
- What you are good at (your vocation)
- What you can get paid for (your profession)
It is said that discovering your own ikigai will support personal fulfilment and happiness, essential ingredients in extending your life.
So how do you find your Ikigai? One way is to write four lists, each titled:
- What do I love doing?
- What am I good at?
- What will bring me reward – Money or otherwise?
- What does the world need?
Once you have reviewed your lists, ask yourself how serious you are about what you are currently doing? Maybe you should grow a new sector in your business? Maybe change your job to something you love?
Our presenter, Neil Cordon from GroundProbe, illustrated this perfectly by sharing his personal aspiration to expand on ‘what the world needs’. GroundProbe produces radar equipment for the mining sector that has saved many lives. Neil is close to achieving his own ikigai.
On a personal note, I recently published a fictional novel. This was certainly something I loved doing [Tick], I doubt I’ll make any money from it [Cross], I am told it was ‘reasonably’ well written [I’ll take a Tick] and I’m not too sure that the world needs it! [Cross]. Maybe an author’s life is not going to help me towards my personal ikigai?
However, as QLD Operations Manager for Industry Partners Australia, I love helping people engage, learn and connect [Tick], It keeps the wolf from the door [Tick], I have the opportunity to share my industry experience [Tick] and with the noble goal of supporting the growth of Australian Industry, there is certainly a need [Tick]. Perhaps my ikigai is closer than I thought!
Call it what you like, the secret of longevity, the pursuit of happiness or just ongoing contentment, ikigai seems to tick the right boxes.
David Newland; QLD Operations Manager
Related content: working remotely
