A Guide to Using the Western-adapted "IKIGAI" Theory for Career Mapping

Finding a career that feels fulfilling and purpose-driven is more important than ever. One tool that can help in this quest is the Japanese concept of Ikigai. Ikigai is a philosophy that combines the Japanese words iki (生き), meaning "life," and gai (甲斐), meaning "worth," to help individuals find their life's purpose. In the context of career planning, Ikigai has inspired a Western-adapted purpose framework that can guide you to find a profession where passion, mission, vocation, and profession intersect. Here’s a gentle step-by-step guide to help you apply the Ikigai theory and purpose framework to map out your career.

Step 1: Understand the Four Elements of the framework

Ikigai is a feeling that can be found at the intersection of four primary elements:

1. What You Love (Your Passion): These are activities you deeply enjoy doing.

2. What the World Needs (Your Mission): This refers to what you can contribute to the community or the world that is of value.

3. What You Can Be Paid For (Your Profession): This involves work that can sustain you financially.

4. What You Are Good At (Your Vocation): These are the skills or talents that you excel in.
   

Step 2: Self-Reflection

Begin with introspection by creating a list for each of the four elements above. Ask yourself:

• What activities make me lose track of time?

• How can I serve the world or make it better?

• What skills do I have that are marketable?

• What have others always said I’m good at?

Step 3: Look for Overlaps

Once you have your lists, identify overlaps between these elements. For example, you might love graphic design (Passion), be good at digital software (Vocation), know that companies need effective advertising (Mission), and acknowledge that graphic designers are in demand (Profession).

Step 4: Identify Your "Ikigai"

Finding your "Ikigai" involves identifying where all four elements intersect. This is your sweet spot. However, don’t worry if you don’t find a perfect match right away. Sometimes, your "Ikigai" may need nurturing through further skills development or shifting market needs.

Step 5: Research and Validate

Once you’ve identified a potential "Ikigai", research the field extensively. Speak to professionals in the industry, look for gaps you may fill, and realistically assess if there’s a financial future in this path. Understanding the industry's landscape is crucial. Attend our Career Mapping Masterclass.

Step 6: Set Goals and Take Action

With a clearer picture, set specific, achievable goals to move toward your "Ikigai". This might involve further education, starting a side project, or even transitioning to a new role gradually.

Step 7: Reflect and Adapt

Finally, keep reflecting on your career path. Is it leading you to your Ikigai? Be open to pivoting or adapting your goals as you learn more about yourself and the world around you.

Finding your "Ikigai" is not always a quick process, but it is a rewarding one. It involves deep self-exploration, an understanding of the external world, and an iterative approach to career planning. By following these steps, you can navigate towards a career that not only sustains you but fulfills you deeply, blending your personal passions with your professional life.

In using "Ikigai", you are encouraged to think holistically about your career, balancing personal satisfaction with practical needs, which in today's world, is a rare and valuable harmony to achieve - I like to call this 'living in flow'.

It's important to note other explorations of Ikigai that add to a well-rounded approach to designing your life. Ken Mogi, a neuroscientist and author, identifies five pillars that are essential to finding and living your Ikigai. Here are the key points summarizing these pillars:

• Starting Small: Focus on small, manageable goals that can be easily achieved. This encourages a sense of accomplishment and progress, which motivates further action.

• Releasing Yourself: Acceptance of who you are and embracing your uniqueness. Letting go of unnecessary pressures and expectations allows you to express your true self.

• Harmony and Sustainability: Building relationships and functioning in a way that is harmonious with others and the environment. This pillar emphasizes long-term sustainability over short-term gains.

• The Joy of Little Things: Appreciating the small pleasures and moments in life. Finding delight in everyday activities contributes to a fulfilling life.

• Being in the Here and Now: The importance of mindfulness and staying present. This involves focusing on the current task and appreciating the moment rather than worrying about the past or future.

These pillars support the broader concept of Ikigai, guiding individuals to live authentically and joyfully, while nurturing a deep sense of purpose.