Use Ikigai to find the right career path
These days, having a linear career path is becoming less common. Career pivots and changes have not only become more acceptable but also valuable, as they provide unique experiences and perspectives that set you apart from those on more traditional paths.
When deciding on your next career move, numerous tactics can help. From career assessments and informational interviews to personality tests and interest inventories, there are plenty of methods to identify which profession you may enjoy most. However, this abundance of options can make choosing the right path overwhelming.
If you’re seeking a single method to find a more fulfilling career path, consider the Japanese concept of “ikigai,” which relates to a person’s reason for being. This concept can serve as a useful framework for identifying where you can thrive in your career.
Ikigai’s origins and structure
Japan has long fascinated many with its blend of modernity and tradition, its respectful culture, and its principles of duty and continuous improvement. These aspects have left a significant impression on me.
The concept of Ikigai has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. Recent books that have popularized the term more broadly include Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles and Ikigai: The Japanese Art of Finding Purpose in Life by Ken Mogi.
Traditionally, Ikigai focuses on finding meaning and purpose in life, but its framework is also highly relevant for identifying a fulfilling career path. In the context of careers, Ikigai involves understanding your reason for being and can be seen as the intersection of four elements:
- What you love: Activities and tasks that naturally energize and engage you.
- What the world needs: Relevant, unmet needs that require attention.
- What you’re good at: Your unique skills, talents, and strengths.
- What you can get paid for: An offering that others are willing to pay for.
Answering these questions can help you pinpoint your professional sweet spot.
An example of applying ikigai to your career path
To illustrate how this framework works, here’s how someone could answer these questions:
What do I love?
I love helping people clarify their career paths. This work energizes me and feels deeply meaningful. I also enjoy being my own boss and managing my schedule, which allows me to focus on personal and professional priorities that matter most to me.
What does the world need?
Accomplished professionals need to feel empowered to pursue work that truly matters to them. They seek to spend their time on meaningful tasks and feel at ease with deviating from conventional paths to engage in more fulfilling work.
What am I good at?
I’m a seasoned public speaker with experience in branding and professional coaching. I excel at critical listening and empowering others by creating structures to help them develop their ideas. Additionally, I pride myself on being committed and trustworthy.
What can I get paid for?
I can earn income by hosting workshops, giving talks, coaching clients, and creating online content for those looking to embark on a new career chapter.
Use Ikigai to find the right career path conclusion
After answering each of these questions, examine where the ideas converge. The intersection of your passions, mission, vocation, and profession can provide insight into what your career path might look like moving forward, helping you identify areas where you can excel and thrive.
These questions may not have immediate answers, as understanding who you are, what you want, and where you want to go is a lifelong journey. However, if you’re seeking another way to clarify your professional career path, the Ikigai framework can be a useful starting point.
