In this episode of The Purposeful Shift, Emma introduces the Japanese concept of Ikigai, often translated as “reason for being,” and explores how it can help you reconnect with purpose, joy and meaning in your everyday life.

Building on earlier conversations around your why and redefining success, this episode offers a simple way to reflect on four key areas: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs and what you can be paid for.

Rather than searching for one perfect answer, Ikigai encourages you to notice where these areas overlap and what feels most aligned for you right now, or put another way, if your daily activities have intersected with the four circles, your life should feel more aligned.

Emma shares a personal example to bring this to life and reminds us that Ikigai is not just about work or big life changes, but also about the small moments that bring a sense of joy and meaning. As described by Ken Mogi, it can be as simple as “waking up to joy.”

Reflection prompts from this episode:

• What do I love?
• What am I good at?
• What does the world need (for me)?
• What could I be paid for?

Follow up questions:

• Where do I see overlaps or patterns?
• What feels most aligned for me right now?
• How could I bring more of this into my everyday life?

You can explore more of Ken Mogi’s perspective on his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHhEq24QNZ-WyDf74yFQHVg

A version of the Ikigai Venn Diagram can be seen on Alamy: https://www.alamy.com/ikigai-interpretation-of-japanese-lifestyle-concept-a-reason-for-being-as-a-balance-between-love-skills-needs-and-money-vector-venn-diagram-image599250047.html

Or by searching on Google ‘Ikigai Venn Diagram’.

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You can also connect with Emma on Instagram: @thepurposefulshift

Thanks for listening!