Discovering Your Career Path: The Ikigai Approach

Some of the most common questions we experience in our lifetime is “What do you want to be when you grow up? What are you going to do after college? What do/are you this and what are you that?” Too often, people ask us the “what’s” but gloss over what I believe to be one of the most fundamental questions-“why.” Why do you want to be a doctor? Why do you want to be a teacher? Heck, why are you even doing this?! Just why?

If people were to ask others why they chose their respective career path, not only does this instigate more conversation, but it allows the other individual to learn what that individual values, dreams, and goals are. It also allows the speaker to think thoughtfully and earnestly about their career choice. Too often individuals choose a career because of money and title and forget to think about what they want out of the career, and what they want in life, and ultimately forget to align their passion, purpose, and values with their career.

By no means will a career ever be “perfect;” however, the career you choose can still encapsulate your values, purpose, and passion so that you can live by your means and live the life you want.

I understand how important it is to find a career that not only pays the bills but also aligns with your passions and purpose. It’s super difficult! For so long, I’ve taken quizzes on what career would match me; however, after considering the career position I realized that I could fit into the role but wouldn’t be able to sustain it because it could never bring me what I desired- freedom both financially and socially and time with my loved ones. It wasn’t until I came across the now-famous Japanese concept of Ikigai- living life with a sense of purpose, a reason for living. In this blog post, we'll explore the fascinating concept of Ikigai and how it can guide you in choosing the right career field. We'll discuss why this topic is vital, how it relates to others on their career journey, and how you can use Ikigai to make a thoughtful choice.

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Why Does it Matter?

Selecting the right career field is one of the most significant decisions you'll make in life. It's not just about making money; it's about finding fulfillment, purpose, and happiness in what you do every day. A mismatch between your career and your values, passions, and skills can lead to dissatisfaction and burnout. That's why understanding how to choose your career field is a fundamental aspect of personal development.

Choosing a career is a shared experience that transcends age, gender, or background. Everyone, at some point, has grappled with the question of what they want to do with their lives. By discussing this topic and sharing the Ikigai approach, we can connect with others on their own career journeys. We can offer insights and support to those who are seeking meaning and purpose in their work. The Ikigai approach isn't just about finding a job; it's about discovering a calling. By delving into this concept, you can help others in their quest to find a career that aligns with their values, passions, talents, and what the world needs. Your insights can lead to better career choices and, ultimately, a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

Ready to reach your HIGHEST Self? Check out my 2024 Digital/Printable EVERYTHING Planner and my 2024 Digital/Printable Self-Care Workbook curated to help you become your BEST authentic self so you can become the boss lady of your life and live the life YOU deserve-The Happy Life!

Uncovering Your Ikigai

As stated above, Ikigai is a Japanese concept and literally breaks down as:

• Iki=alive or life

• Gai= benefit or worth

Overall, Ikigai translates to giving your life worth, meaning, or purpose. The term evolved through traditional Japanese medicine which focuses on physical wellbeing and how it affects one’s mental-emotional health and sense of purpose in life. The concept of Ikigai involves intersections of passion, talent, and potential which include:

1. What You Love: Start by identifying what you're passionate about. What activities or topics make you lose track of time? What do you enjoy doing, even when no one is watching? Your passions are a significant clue to your Ikigai.

2. What You're Good At: Take a deep dive into your skills and talents. What are you naturally good at? These strengths often hint at what you can excel in. Don't forget to consider both hard and soft skills, as they're equally important.

3. What the World Needs: To find your Ikigai in a career, think about what the world needs. What problems or challenges can you help solve? How can your skills and passions contribute to making the world a better place? This alignment with a higher purpose is essential.

4. What You Can Be Paid For: While passion and purpose are crucial, we also need to consider financial sustainability. Identify areas within your passions and skills that have career opportunities. This will ensure that you can earn a living while pursuing your Ikigai.

Balancing the Elements: Your Ikigai lies at the intersection of these four elements: what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. When you find that sweet spot where these aspects overlap, you've discovered your Ikigai, and it can guide your career choices.

Ready to reach your HIGHEST Self? Check out my 2024 Digital/Printable EVERYTHING Planner and my 2024 Digital/Printable Self-Care Workbook curated to help you become your BEST authentic self so you can become the boss lady of your life and live the life YOU deserve-The Happy Life!

Choosing the right career field can be a transformative process. By embracing the Ikigai approach, you can align your career with your passions, talents, purpose, and financial needs. This balance can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful life where work becomes a source of joy, not just a paycheck. Remember, the journey to finding your Ikigai may take time and self-discovery, but it's well worth the effort. In the end, you'll be on a path that not only serves you but also contributes to the greater good. So, take the leap and follow your Ikigai to a career that truly resonates with your soul.

As always, sending you so much love, happiness, and luck!

Ready to reach your HIGHEST Self? Check out my 2024 Digital/Printable EVERYTHING Planner and my 2024 Digital/Printable Self-Care Workbook curated to help you become your BEST authentic self so you can become the boss lady of your life and live the life YOU deserve-The Happy Life!

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Save it to your Pinterest board so that you can refer to it later! You can also follow me on Pinterest for more related content!

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