Discover your Ikigai

 “Ikigai” is a Japanese concept that translates to “reason for being” or “purpose in life.” Rooted in the Okinawan culture, where people are known for their longevity and happiness, ikigai is believed to be a key factor in living a fulfilling and meaningful life. The idea is that everyone has an ikigai -something that gives them a reason to get up in the morning and face the day with enthusiasm. It’s the intersection where passion, vocation, profession, and mission meet, guiding us toward a more purposeful existence.

Inspired by Mark Manson’s framework to find your life’s calling, this exercise simplifies the search for your own ikigai into four easy steps. In just about 20 minutes, you can start to uncover what truly motivates you and how you can align that with what the world needs, what you’re good at, and what you can get paid for.

Step 1: List What You Love Doing

Grab a pen and paper and jot down everything that brings you joy, big or small. Think about the little things, the activities you enjoyed as a kid, hobbies, or even the random moments that make you smile. Be specific. The more detail, the better. Bonus points if you include things you love that most people don’t!

Step 2: Identify What You Could Get Paid For

Look at your list and start crossing off anything that probably won’t pay the bills (unfortunately, “eating tacos” might not make the cut ). The goal here is to be realistic but also to recognize just how many things you actually enjoy.

Step 3: Pinpoint What You’re Great At

Now, look at what’s left and ask yourself, “What am I better at than most people?” Consider what your friends, family, or coworkers often turn to you for help or advice on. This is all about recognizing your strengths, even if you’re still working on some of them. Cross off anything that doesn’t really apply.

Step 4: Determine What Benefits the World

Finally, circle the things that can make a positive impact on others. It doesn’t have to be something huge-small contributions matter, too. Cross out whatever doesn’t fit this criteria.

What’s left should be a powerful combination of activities that bring you joy, are financially viable, align with your strengths, and can positively impact the world.

Why It Works

This exercise helps you find the intersection of four key areas:

• What you love
• What you can get paid for
• What you’re uniquely skilled at
• What’s good for the world

When you combine these, you’ll uncover your personal ikigai — a unique purpose that gives you an edge because no one else can be you. But discovering your ikigai is only the beginning. Living it has a cost — it requires effort, dedication, and sometimes struggle. There will be moments when it feels difficult, frustrating, or even painful, and you may be tempted to give up. But if you stay committed to your ikigai, you will grow wiser and more resilient. Over time, you’ll appreciate your life more deeply, knowing you’ve given your best to pursue what truly matters.

As Naval Ravikant says, “No one can compete with you on being you.”