Ikigai can be defined as a motivation to find purpose in life and to pursue it in the decisions we make for our actions to be aligned with our objectives in life.
The concept of Ikigai has existed in Japanese culture for centuries, but it was Miek Kamiya, a Japanese psychiatrist who first included it in her book "On the meaning of life" back in 1966.
Applying this Japanese concept in our everyday life leads to better satisfaction in our decisions and understanding of where we are heading to.
This being said, it is an excellent philosophy to apply to our financial decisions and the way we manage money.
Ikigai is not Just a Venn Diagram
Ikigai has been widely misunderstood by many as a simple "Ikigai Venn diagram". Wellness bloggers, life coaches, and HR managers worldwide have shared the diagram with millions of readers.
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Although the “Ikigai Venn Diagram” first appeared in Andrés Zuzunaga book "What would you do if you weren't afraid", entrepreneur Marc Winn merged it with the Ikigai philosophy and Dan Buettner's Ted Talk on "How to live to be 100+" made it popular.
Nicholas Kemp is an author, Japanologist, and founder of the Ikigai Tribe. He is a huge advocate of the real Ikigai teachings. In his Medium article, he addressed the heart of Ikigai, which goes beyond what most people know.
The 5 pillars of Ikigai
He believes that the 5 Pillars of Ikigai from Ken Mogi's book are a better way to allow our Ikigai to flourish.
- Pillar 1: Starting small
- Pillar 2: Letting yourself free
- Pillar 3: Harmony and sustainability
- Pillar 4: The joy of little things
- Pillar 5: Living in the moment
In conclusion, Ikigai is more than just a simple diagram of four circles. It is an ancient and complex concept that requires understanding and effort to unlock its potential.
The 10 Rules of Ikigai
However, the diagram can really help implement the Ikigai philosophy in your everyday life. Ikigai is the intersection of passion, vocation, mission, and profession. To allow it to flourish, you need to commit to the 10 rules of Ikigai, which are:
#1 Staying healthy and active
Setting goals and consistently progressing towards them is key to staying active. Having dreams fuels our motivation and provides a sense of direction in our daily lives.
Additionally, helping others find their Ikigai can bring immense fulfillment.
#2 Take it slow
Taking it slow means savoring the simple pleasures of life. It's about stepping back from the constant rush of deadlines and responsibilities and allowing ourselves to breathe and recharge.
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#3 Don't fill your stomach
Practical strategies for mindful eating include slowing down when you eat, enjoying its flavors and textures, and tuning into your body's signals of hunger and fullness. Paying attention to moderation and portion control are integral parts of living a healthier lifestyle.
Furthermore, planning meals and snacks to incorporate a range of nutritious food options can also be useful.
This rule can work as an analogy of diversifying your investment portfolio, it should also include a range of instruments to reduce risk, including some liquid assets.
#4 Surround yourself with good friends
Toxic people are never worth your time. Surrounding yourself with good friends with similar interests and values is essential for finding and living your Ikigai.
Having kindhearted friends will not only improve your well-being, but they can also bring greater purpose and fulfillment to your daily life.
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#5 Get in shape for your next birthday
Set realistic, long-term goals and stay consistent with your exercise routine. With dedication and perseverance, you can get in shape and enjoy a healthier, happier you on your next birthday.
#6 Smile
According to the authors of Ikigai, smiling is said to increase longevity and happiness in life.
#7 Reconnect with nature
Connecting with the earth allows us to appreciate its splendor in all its forms. It will enable us to escape the pressures and demands of the modern world and tune into what truly brings us joy and fulfillment.
If you're feeling disoriented or uncertain of your path, take some time to reconnect with nature.
#8 Give thanks
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Expressing gratitude enormously affects our overall well-being and happiness, raising positive emotions while decreasing stress levels, strengthening relationships, and expanding opportunities to appreciate others' goodness.
Giving thanks opens us up to an entire universe of blessings and positivity.
#9 Live in the moment
Life requires us to be fully present and aware in each moment without being distracted by memories or worrying about what lies ahead.
Financially, it means using money to support our goals rather than letting it control us by avoiding impulse purchases and practicing budgeting. We will discuss more about this later.
#10 Follow your Ikigai
Remember, following your Ikigai is not a one-time decision. It is a lifelong journey that requires adaptability and continuous self-reflection. Stay true to your values and find ways to incorporate your Ikigai into all aspects of your life.
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Finding Investment Strategy with a Purpose
At a time when financial freedom and quality of life are in constant pursuit, finding purpose can be transformative.
Enter the Japanese concept of Ikigai, which explores our passions and interests and helps us align our investments with our values.
Investment decisions are integral to our finances, yet they can also impact our daily lives. Investment portfolios provide a platform for financial expansion and can serve as tools to lead more fulfilling lives. With Ikigai as our investing philosophy, we can create a fulfilling life that aligns with our values and brings us joy.
By making purposeful investing based on our Ikigai investing philosophy, we gain valuable insights into what truly matters to us.
Top Five Tips to Achieve Financial Well-Being from Ikigai
Financial Ikigai can be defined in various ways; one way is by considering what brings you joy and fulfillment in your economic life; this may range from feeling secure financially, such as having enough for travel or hobbies, or affording them easily. Spending money on charity causes or socially responsible firms in fields you care about may also give it significance.
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Financial self-care involves learning what helps you feel in control of your money and making plans to reach goals and protect boundaries. Doing this can increase resilience while creating a more positive relationship with money instead of one that causes stress or emotional strain.
Here are five top tips based on Ikigai's values to help you effectively manage your money:
- Have a budget.
- Build an emergency fund.
- Spend mindfully.
- Make a debt repayment plan.
- Start purposeful investing.
Follow Your Ikigai Starting Today
Today, we hope that Ikigai has inspired you to embark on your long-term journey, using it as a roadmap toward improving your financial well-being.
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Remember, following your Ikigai is an ongoing process that requires us to reflect on our passions, interests, and values. It's about embodying the spirit of joy and fulfillment in all aspects of life—including our finances.
