Ikigai and your Career

Are you familiar with the concept of ikigai (pronounced ee-key-guy)?
The word ikigai is a Japanese concept and means your life’s worth (iki = life and gai= worth). Ikigai is finding meaning in life and wholeheartedly dedicating yourself to your personal happiness. Essentially, what is the source of your daily motivation??

But have you ever stopped to consider how you can apply the "ikigai" concept to your career? How many people can say they wake up each Monday looking forward to their week of work? Imagine combining what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and getting paid for it. I feel very fortunate enough to love what I do, I feel passion and purpose and have a great desire to continue to build my skills and knowledge in this space. For many people, covid was a catalyst for change. An opportunity to re-think priorities and to take a career pivot. Can you relate?

This diagram is different to the usual venn diagrams used as is a simple but effective way of showing ikigai as the convergence of four areas of life: what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. Where each area overlaps, is your ikigai – your reason for getting up and where you should focus your efforts to find ultimate fulfilment.

For many neurodivergent folk, if we can channel our strengths, intense interests and skills into a career and seek meaningful employment then we are a step closer towards ikigai. If you aren't sure where to start, I encourage you to set some quiet time for deep reflection. Ask yourself:

What do you love doing?
▫️ What do you love doing outside work?
▫️ What do you find yourself constantly wanting to learn more?
▫️ Is there an activity where you lose track of time?
▫️ If you won the lottery, is there a job you would do even if you didn’t get paid?
▫️ Is there any activity you engage in which builds your spoons and gives you energy?

What are you good at?
▫️ Is there something that your friends/ family come to you to get advice or assistance?
▫️ What accomplishments are you proud of?
▫️ What comes naturally to you?

What can you get paid for?
▫️ Would people be willing to pay for this service?
▫️ Can doing this give you the income you require?
▫️ Are there already other similar services or is your idea a niche?

What does the world need?
▫️ Are you helping to solve problems and providing support to others?
▫️ Does this align with your personal values & beliefs?
▫️ What wider societal impact could you have by doing this?
▫️ Will there be continuing demand?

As we near the end of the year, is it time you find your calling? Remember, it is never too late to make a change. I'd love to hear from you if you have already found passion and purpose in your career? What changes did you make to get there?

This visual was created by @Mountika.studio and shared via their Instagram account.