Feed my mind with Carly Taylor - Ikigai – What Makes Life Worth Living

I have a childhood memory of time spent with my dad in my grandparents flat, overlooking the beautiful ocean at Sorrento. He would set-up a canvas on an easel, and we would paint our interpretation of the sea. The goal was not to create a masterpiece, or even paint a slightly impressive picture. The goal was to stand at the easel, with Dad and my brother on either side of me, and paint the sea.

That memory brings me a sense of joy and warmth to my heart.

If you are familiar with the Japanese term, Ikigai, you may relate it to a Venn diagram that often appears on the Internet. This Venn diagram does not accurately reflect the Japanese concept of ikigai, rather its a Western interpretation that went viral around 10 years ago.

Ikigai is not what the world needs from you, but rather what you need - it acts as a coping mechanism for many Japanese who, like many of us, live stressful and demanding lives. 

The memory I had of painting the sea with my dad is a source of Ikigai for me. I also feel Ikigai when I drink my morning coffee, or interact with a magpie on a walk, or have a meaningful conversation with a friend. Ikigai sources can be a hobby, it can be a hope for the future, travel, time in nature, your family, your pets or even your work (if you’re lucky). If you pay attention to it, you will feel it.

Even in times of struggle, we can turn our attention to our Ikigai sources and feel a sense of Ikigai, even for a fleeting moment.

What brings you a sense of Ikigai?

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