Fifty years ago, I was introduced to the Japanese martial art of Shotokan Karate, an experience that shaped much of who I am today. Through Karate, I not only got a black belt, but also developed discipline and physical and mental strength. I also grew deeply curious about Japanese culture. Over time, I found myself drawn to its rich traditions and, most profoundly, its philosophy of life. Concepts like balance, simplicity, and purpose resonated deeply with me, especially the idea of ikigai – one’s “reason for being.” In this article, I want to share the beauty of ikigai, its relevance to mental well-being, and how it can be applied to discover a fulfilling life.
What is Ikigai? Ikigai (pronounced ee-key-guy) is a Japanese concept that means “reason for being.” It combines iki (life) and gai (value or worth) to describe what makes life feel meaningful. It represents the intersection of four key areas of life:
- What you love (your passion).
- What you are good at (your talents or skills).
- What the world needs (your sense of purpose).
- What you can be paid for (your profession or vocation).
When these four areas overlap, you find your ikigai. It is believed that living with ikigai brings joy, meaning, and a sense of fulfilment.
In psychotherapy, exploring ikigai can be a powerful tool for personal growth, especially for people seeking clarity about their goals, values, and life direction.
How Ikigai Helps Mental Health
Discovering your ikigai can help you:
- Reduce Stress: When your daily activities align with your ikigai, life feels more balanced.
- Boost Motivation: Knowing your purpose encourages you to pursue meaningful goals.
- Enhance Resilience: Understanding your values and strengths helps you face challenges with confidence.
- Improve Relationships: Finding what matters most can deepen your connections with others.
For people struggling with anxiety, depression, or feelings of being “stuck,” exploring ikigai offers a pathway to hope and direction.
Ikigai in Psychotherapy
Therapists use the concept of ikigai to help clients uncover what makes life meaningful. Here’s how:
1. Self-Discovery
Clients reflect on their strengths, passions, and values. Questions like “What makes you lose track of time?” or “What are you naturally good at?” can uncover hidden joys and talents.
2. Exploring Life’s Purpose
Clients identify areas where they can contribute to the world. For example, someone passionate about teaching might explore mentoring opportunities.
3. Finding Balance
Therapists encourage clients to align their daily routines with their ikigai. This might involve setting goals to integrate meaningful activities into their lives, like volunteering or pursuing a creative hobby.
4. Coping with Challenges
Understanding one’s ikigai can make it easier to navigate difficult times. For example, someone experiencing a career setback may discover ways to reframe the situation by focusing on their purpose and long-term vision.
Practical Steps to Find Your Ikigai
1. Write Down Your Interests: List what you love doing, even if it feels small or unimportant.
2. Recognize Your Skills: Think about what others say you’re good at or what comes naturally to you.
3. Identify What the World Needs: What problems in your community or the world resonate with you?
4. Look at Opportunities for Income: Consider how you might turn your passions and skills into work that sustains you.
5. Reflect and Refine: Your ikigai isn’t static – it evolves with time. Regular reflection helps keep it aligned with your current values and goals.
Real-Life Examples
First example: Mary, a teacher who felt burnt out after years in education. Through psychotherapy, Mary explored her ikigai. She realized she loved storytelling, was skilled in engaging children, and wanted to help kids develop creativity. Mary transitioned into writing children’s books. Her work now blends her passions and skills, giving her renewed purpose. Another real-life example: Joe, a 42-year-old teacher, who had always felt a sense of emptiness despite his successful career. He rediscovered his faith through Christianity, which gave him a new perspective on life. Through prayer and reflection, John realized his passion for mentoring others and his deep desire to serve his community. Combining his teaching skills and faith, he began volunteering at a youth ministry, guiding young people to find hope and purpose in their lives. For John, his ikigai became clear: sharing his faith and supporting others in their spiritual and personal growth. This new sense of direction brought him a profound joy he hadn’t felt in years.
Why Ikigai Matters
Living without purpose can feel empty, but ikigai offers a map to find joy and fulfilment. It’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about living authentically, with a sense of direction and hope.
Finally, remember that discovering your ikigai is a journey, not a destination. It doesn’t have to be perfect or permanent, as it can evolve as you grow and change. Whether you’re looking to improve your mental health or seeking a more meaningful life, discovering your ikigai can open doors to new possibilities. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey – if you need support, reach out. We’re here to help.
Author: Nenad Bakaj, MHumServ (RehabCouns), BSocWk, DipAppSci (Comm&HumServ), AMHSW, MAAC, MAASW, JP (Qld)
Nenad Bakaj is a Brisbane based Clinical Counsellor, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Life Coach and Bigger Bite Out Of Life Trainer with a keen interest in positive psychology, mental health and wellbeing, and is continually developing his professional skills and knowledge. Nenad enjoys working with adolescents and young adults, as well as older clients, and feels it is a privilege to be able to support them.
To make an appointment with Nenad Bakaj, try Online Booking. Alternatively, you can call Vision Psychology Brisbane on (07) 3088 5422 or M1 Psychology Loganholme on (07) 3067 9129.
References
1. García, H., & Miralles, F. (2017). Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. London: Penguin.
2. Mathews, G. (1996). What Makes Life Worth Living? How Japanese and Americans Make Sense of Their Worlds. Berkeley: University of California Press.